In an interview with the American television channel CBS, Pope Francis called for an end to the war in Ukraine, the Gaza Strip and the whole world, and also reminded that there is enough room for everyone in the Church.
Jānis Evertovskis – Vatican
One part of the interview was broadcast by CBS on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 24. The Pope was interviewed by News Channel editor Norah M. O’Donnell. They spoke about current international topics such as war, peace, hunger and climate change. A larger part of the conversation will be broadcast on Sunday, May 19.
“A negotiated peace is better than an endless war,” Francis said, referring to Ukraine, Gaza and other wars rocking the world. He urged all the warring countries to end the conflicts: “Try to agree, strive for peace!”. Asked about the term “genocide” in relation to the events in Gaza, the Roman bishop repeated the word, stressing that he remains in touch with this tragic reality and prays for a cease-fire in Gaza: every night he calls the only Catholic parish in the Gaza Strip for updates. According to the Pope, the situation there is extremely difficult, also because people are fighting for food. 600 people who are hiding from the war are currently staying in this parish. Food is brought to them, but when it comes to sharing, there are fights.
Asked about the effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on children, Francis said: “These children don’t know how to smile. I tell them something, but they have forgotten how to smile. And when a child forgets to smile, it is very serious”.
The Bishop of Rome addressed the issue of climate change, and regarding the upcoming World Children’s Day, he pointed out that children always carry a message and help renew the heart. Therefore, during general audiences, he often puts a few children in his “Papamobile” as he drives around St. Peter’s Square. On his initiative, World Children’s Day will be celebrated for the first time in Rome on May 25 and 26. When asked about his health, the Pope replied that everything is fine.
Another topic of conversation was the declining number of practicing Catholics in America. What would the Pope say to those who no longer attend Holy Mass on Sundays or who do not see a place for themselves in the Church? – he was asked. The Holy Father admitted that he understands these people, but once again emphasized that there is always a place for everyone in the Church. “If the parish priest doesn’t look welcoming, I understand,” he said. “Then look for another place, because there is always room. Do not run away from the Church: it is big and much bigger than a single church – there is no need to run away from it”.
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