Pope Francis Quotes

Most popular Pope Francis Quotes

The fact that a woman can't be a priest doesn't mean that she is less than a man. - Pope Francis quote.
The fact that a woman can't be a priest doesn't mean that she is less than a man.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

women Catholicism priesthood

To recognize, accept, and live with all ways of thinking and being does not imply the renunciation of one's own beliefs. - Pope Francis quote.
To recognize, accept, and live with all ways of thinking and being does not imply the renunciation of one's own beliefs.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

beliefs tolerance diversity

Life is priceless. - Pope Francis quote.
Life is priceless.
— Pope Francis Homily, 23 March 2012

life

Mercy, mercy, mercy. - Pope Francis quote.
Mercy, mercy, mercy.
— Pope Francis Bloomberg News, 14 March 2013
May God forgive you. - Pope Francis quote.
May God forgive you.
— Pope Francis First dinner with cardinals after election as Pope, 13 March 2013
I'll stay down here. - Pope Francis quote.
I'll stay down here.
— Pope Francis CNN, 14 March 2013
Maturity implies time. - Pope Francis quote.
Maturity implies time.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

age maturity

Repair my Church in ruins. - Pope Francis quote.
Repair my Church in ruins.
— Pope Francis Catholic Online, 14 March 2013
The city is also a mother. - Pope Francis quote.
The city is also a mother.
— Pope Francis Homily, 30 December 2005
Death is on my mind every day. - Pope Francis quote.
Death is on my mind every day.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

death

Jesus took care of the details. - Pope Francis quote.
Jesus took care of the details.
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 April 2003

Jesus

Mary was an expert in listening. - Pope Francis quote.
Mary was an expert in listening.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2006
It is the age of "weak thought." - Pope Francis quote.
It is the age of "weak thought."
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2004

modern life

Every human being is worthwhile. - Pope Francis quote.
Every human being is worthwhile.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

mankind

Brothers and sisters, good evening. - Pope Francis quote.
Brothers and sisters, good evening.
— Pope Francis
New realities demand new responses. - Pope Francis quote.
New realities demand new responses.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002
To walk as a people is always slower. - Pope Francis quote.
To walk as a people is always slower.
— Pope Francis Letter of the Archbishop to the Catechists of Buenos Aires, August 2004

unity

I'll just go with the guys on the bus. - Pope Francis quote.
I'll just go with the guys on the bus.
— Pope Francis Associated Press, 13 March 2013
Alcohol and drugs are an easy shortcut. - Pope Francis quote.
Alcohol and drugs are an easy shortcut.
— Pope Francis Guardian, 14 March 2013
I don't want to keep the people waiting. - Pope Francis quote.
I don't want to keep the people waiting.
— Pope Francis Wall Street Journal, 13 March 2013
Where there is hope, there is happiness. - Pope Francis quote.
Where there is hope, there is happiness.
— Pope Francis Homily, 10 April 2002

happiness hope

So many children don't know how to pray! - Pope Francis quote.
So many children don't know how to pray!
— Pope Francis Homily, Ash Wednesday 2004

parenting children

Truth, goodness, and beauty are inseparable. - Pope Francis quote.
Truth, goodness, and beauty are inseparable.
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

truth

Man is not made for work; work is made for man. - Pope Francis quote.
Man is not made for work; work is made for man.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

work

The family is the natural center of human life. - Pope Francis quote.
The family is the natural center of human life.
— Pope Francis Parish and Family, 18 January 2007

family

Whoever does not pray to God, prays to the Devil. - Pope Francis quote.
Whoever does not pray to God, prays to the Devil.
— Pope Francis First homily as Pope, 15 March 2013

devil

What is gossip? It's a truth taken out of context. - Pope Francis quote.
What is gossip? It's a truth taken out of context.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

gossip

Euthanasia is a culture of discarding the elderly. - Pope Francis quote.
Euthanasia is a culture of discarding the elderly.
— Pope Francis Speech, Aparecida Document, 2 October 2007
Indifference is dangerous, whether innocent or not. - Pope Francis quote.
Indifference is dangerous, whether innocent or not.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2003

apathy

The measure of every human being is God, not money. - Pope Francis quote.
The measure of every human being is God, not money.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

God money

Education is the genuine expression of social love. - Pope Francis quote.
Education is the genuine expression of social love.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

education

No one can grow if he does not accept his smallness. - Pope Francis quote.
No one can grow if he does not accept his smallness.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2006

self-improvement

The blindness of spirit prevents us from being free. - Pope Francis quote.
The blindness of spirit prevents us from being free.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2004

freedom spiritual

Teaching is one of the passionate arts in existence. - Pope Francis quote.
Teaching is one of the passionate arts in existence.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2008

teaching

What God cares about most is that we are His friends. - Pope Francis quote.
What God cares about most is that we are His friends.
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 April 2003

God

Mediocrity is the best drug for enslaving the people. - Pope Francis quote.
Mediocrity is the best drug for enslaving the people.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2004

mediocrity

The Church was, is, and will continue to be persecuted. - Pope Francis quote.
The Church was, is, and will continue to be persecuted.
— Pope Francis Homily, 23 April 2007

church

A little mercy makes the world less cold and more just. - Pope Francis quote.
A little mercy makes the world less cold and more just.
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 March 2013

mercy

The truth is always combative, but it is also combated. - Pope Francis quote.
The truth is always combative, but it is also combated.
— Pope Francis Homily, 10 April 2002

truth

How I would love a Church that is poor and for the poor. - Pope Francis quote.
How I would love a Church that is poor and for the poor.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013

church

He who has a little more power has to serve a little more. - Pope Francis quote.
He who has a little more power has to serve a little more.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2005

power

This is the struggle of every person: be free or be a slave. - Pope Francis quote.
This is the struggle of every person: be free or be a slave.
— Pope Francis Homily, 4 September 2003

freedom materialism

And, please, don't stop praying for me because, well, I need it. - Pope Francis quote.
And, please, don't stop praying for me because, well, I need it.
— Pope Francis Homily, 9 June 2007

personal

I invite you to recognize the treasure hidden in your fragility. - Pope Francis quote.
I invite you to recognize the treasure hidden in your fragility.
— Pope Francis Homily, 21 August 2003
How many problems would we avoid in life if we learned to listen? - Pope Francis quote.
How many problems would we avoid in life if we learned to listen?
— Pope Francis Homily, 5 October 2008

listening

Anti-condom zealots want to stick the whole world inside a condom. - Pope Francis quote.
Anti-condom zealots want to stick the whole world inside a condom.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

birth control

[My parents] met in 1934 at Mass. They married the following year. - Pope Francis quote.
[My parents] met in 1934 at Mass. They married the following year.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010
If the Lord did not forgive everything, the world would not exist. - Pope Francis quote.
If the Lord did not forgive everything, the world would not exist.
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 March 2013

forgiveness God

It's very hard, in the world of the easy, to believe in the truth. - Pope Francis quote.
It's very hard, in the world of the easy, to believe in the truth.
— Pope Francis Homily, 10 April 2002

truth

It is not enough to avoid injustice if you're not promoting justice. - Pope Francis quote.
It is not enough to avoid injustice if you're not promoting justice.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

justice injustice

We do not have the right to be indifferent or to look the other way. - Pope Francis quote.
We do not have the right to be indifferent or to look the other way.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2003

apathy

I don't like to talk about what I haven't seen or what I don't know. - Pope Francis quote.
I don't like to talk about what I haven't seen or what I don't know.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 September 2008
It seems to me that a meditation about maturity would do us all good. - Pope Francis quote.
It seems to me that a meditation about maturity would do us all good.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

maturity

Let me be clear: "take your time" isn't the same as "just let it be." - Pope Francis quote.
Let me be clear: "take your time" isn't the same as "just let it be."
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

action time

It is possible to build a new civilization centered on love and life. - Pope Francis quote.
It is possible to build a new civilization centered on love and life.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 September 2004

civilization

The cardinalate is a service; it is not an award to be bragged about. - Pope Francis quote.
The cardinalate is a service; it is not an award to be bragged about.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012

Catholicism

Only he who recognizes his vulnerability is capable of unified action. - Pope Francis quote.
Only he who recognizes his vulnerability is capable of unified action.
— Pope Francis Homily, 21 August 2003

know yourself

The manipulation of memory is never innocent; rather, it is dishonest. - Pope Francis quote.
The manipulation of memory is never innocent; rather, it is dishonest.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

memory

Every leader, to become a true leader, has to be, above all, a witness. - Pope Francis quote.
Every leader, to become a true leader, has to be, above all, a witness.
— Pope Francis Speech, Archdiocesan Social Pastoral Conference, 16 October 2010

leadership

Of course, participating in political life is a way of honoring democracy. - Pope Francis quote.
Of course, participating in political life is a way of honoring democracy.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

democracy

The person who is most high among us must be at the service of the others. - Pope Francis quote.
The person who is most high among us must be at the service of the others.
— Pope Francis Homily, 29 March 2013

service

Every big city has many riches, many possibilities, but also many dangers. - Pope Francis quote.
Every big city has many riches, many possibilities, but also many dangers.
— Pope Francis Homily, 12 March 2005
God isn't a kind of Andreani [UPS or FedEx], sending messages all the time. - Pope Francis quote.
God isn't a kind of Andreani [UPS or FedEx], sending messages all the time.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

God

Perhaps the worst injustice of the present time is the triumph of bitterness. - Pope Francis quote.
Perhaps the worst injustice of the present time is the triumph of bitterness.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002
True leadership and the source of its authority is an existential experience. - Pope Francis quote.
True leadership and the source of its authority is an existential experience.
— Pope Francis Speech, Archdiocesan Social Pastoral Conference, 16 October 2010

leadership

God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy. - Pope Francis quote.
God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy.
— Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium: The Joy of the Gospel

God

Listening is also the capacity to share questions and the search [for answers]. - Pope Francis quote.
Listening is also the capacity to share questions and the search [for answers].
— Pope Francis El Verdadero Poder Es el Servicio, 2007

listening

It is not 'progressive' to try to resolve problems by eliminating a human life. - Pope Francis quote.
It is not 'progressive' to try to resolve problems by eliminating a human life.
— Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium: The Joy of the Gospel

abortion

[Living] the Christian life [means] giving witness with joy, just as Jesus did. - Pope Francis quote.
[Living] the Christian life [means] giving witness with joy, just as Jesus did.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

Christianity

Few things are more moving than the human need for beauty that all hearts have. - Pope Francis quote.
Few things are more moving than the human need for beauty that all hearts have.
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

beauty

Theologically speaking, the Devil is a being who chose not to accept God's plan. - Pope Francis quote.
Theologically speaking, the Devil is a being who chose not to accept God's plan.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

devil

The most dangerous idol is our own selves when we want to occupy the place of God. - Pope Francis quote.
The most dangerous idol is our own selves when we want to occupy the place of God.
— Pope Francis Homily, 11 September 2004

idolatry

Where there is truth, there is also light, but don't confuse light with the flash. - Pope Francis quote.
Where there is truth, there is also light, but don't confuse light with the flash.
— Pope Francis Homily, 4 October 2002

truth

I dare to say it still: we Argentinians have a long history of mutual intolerance. - Pope Francis quote.
I dare to say it still: we Argentinians have a long history of mutual intolerance.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

Argentina

Journalists always present themselves before society as "searchers for the truth." - Pope Francis quote.
Journalists always present themselves before society as "searchers for the truth."
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

journalism

There are two types of men: those who take care of the pain and those who pass by. - Pope Francis quote.
There are two types of men: those who take care of the pain and those who pass by.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2003

helping others

The capacity to wait is probably one of the most important things we have to learn. - Pope Francis quote.
The capacity to wait is probably one of the most important things we have to learn.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

waiting

We don't have to expect everything from those who govern us; that would be juvenile. - Pope Francis quote.
We don't have to expect everything from those who govern us; that would be juvenile.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2003

government

"But Father, I don't know how to love." No one knows how to love; we learn every day. - Pope Francis quote.
"But Father, I don't know how to love." No one knows how to love; we learn every day.
— Pope Francis Homily, 21 April 2004

love

Curiously, we have more information than ever, and yet we don't know what's going on. - Pope Francis quote.
Curiously, we have more information than ever, and yet we don't know what's going on.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2004

modern life

We can say, without being irreverent: there isn't anyone more "inefficient" than God. - Pope Francis quote.
We can say, without being irreverent: there isn't anyone more "inefficient" than God.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

forgiveness God

The greatest leaders in God's tribe have been those men who have left room for doubt. - Pope Francis quote.
The greatest leaders in God's tribe have been those men who have left room for doubt.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

doubt open-mindedness

Hope is the capacity to weigh everything and keep the best of each thing, to discern. - Pope Francis quote.
Hope is the capacity to weigh everything and keep the best of each thing, to discern.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

hope

The bitterness of the old person is worse than any other because it is without return. - Pope Francis quote.
The bitterness of the old person is worse than any other because it is without return.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

age

Latin America is experiencing, as the rest of the world is, a cultural transformation. - Pope Francis quote.
Latin America is experiencing, as the rest of the world is, a cultural transformation.
— Pope Francis Homily, 19 January 2008
Living together is an art. It's a patient art, it's a beautiful art, it's fascinating. - Pope Francis quote.
Living together is an art. It's a patient art, it's a beautiful art, it's fascinating.
— Pope Francis

relationships marriage

Service is the rejection of indifference and utilitarian egotism. It is doing for others. - Pope Francis quote.
Service is the rejection of indifference and utilitarian egotism. It is doing for others.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2001

service

Jesus does not want us to be still, nor rushed; neither resting on our laurels, nor tense. - Pope Francis quote.
Jesus does not want us to be still, nor rushed; neither resting on our laurels, nor tense.
— Pope Francis Homily, 24 May 2008

Jesus

What was a sin and injustice also needs to be blessed with pardon, remorse, and reparation. - Pope Francis quote.
What was a sin and injustice also needs to be blessed with pardon, remorse, and reparation.
— Pope Francis Homily, 9 June 2007

sin

That is the religious experience: the astonishment of meeting someone who is waiting for you. - Pope Francis quote.
That is the religious experience: the astonishment of meeting someone who is waiting for you.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

religion

To be an open priest is to be capable of listening while remaining firm in one's convictions. - Pope Francis quote.
To be an open priest is to be capable of listening while remaining firm in one's convictions.
— Pope Francis Letter to the Priests of the Archdiocese, 1 October 1999

priesthood

It was [the Holy Spirit] who inspired the decision of Benedict XVI for the good of the Church. - Pope Francis quote.
It was [the Holy Spirit] who inspired the decision of Benedict XVI for the good of the Church.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013
God, when He looks at our fragility, invites us to tend to it not with fear, but with audacity. - Pope Francis quote.
God, when He looks at our fragility, invites us to tend to it not with fear, but with audacity.
— Pope Francis Homily, 8 April 2004

God

[I] know more agnostics than atheists; the first is more undecided, the second, more convinced. - Pope Francis quote.
[I] know more agnostics than atheists; the first is more undecided, the second, more convinced.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

atheism agnostic

We try to reach out to people who are far away, via digital means, the web, and brief messaging. - Pope Francis quote.
We try to reach out to people who are far away, via digital means, the web, and brief messaging.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012
Dear friends, I thank you from the heart and I ask you to continue to pray for me. Pope Francis. - Pope Francis quote.
Dear friends, I thank you from the heart and I ask you to continue to pray for me. Pope Francis.
— Pope Francis Twitter, @Pontifex, 17 March 2013
Would it be possible for us to be more attentive to what we say to others and what we don't say? - Pope Francis quote.
Would it be possible for us to be more attentive to what we say to others and what we don't say?
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

mindfulness conversation

There are sectors within the religions that are so prescriptive that they forget the human side. - Pope Francis quote.
There are sectors within the religions that are so prescriptive that they forget the human side.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

religion

We ask for the grace of never tiring of asking for forgiveness, for He never tires of forgiving. - Pope Francis quote.
We ask for the grace of never tiring of asking for forgiveness, for He never tires of forgiving.
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 March 2013

forgiveness

I like tango; I danced it when I was young. ... Tango is something that gives me great pleasure. - Pope Francis quote.
I like tango; I danced it when I was young. ... Tango is something that gives me great pleasure.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010
Each day, we all face the choice to be Good Samaritans or to be indifferent travelers passing by. - Pope Francis quote.
Each day, we all face the choice to be Good Samaritans or to be indifferent travelers passing by.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2003

helping others

We are living through serious situations that are dispiriting and frequently take our breath away. - Pope Francis quote.
We are living through serious situations that are dispiriting and frequently take our breath away.
— Pope Francis Homily, Ash Wednesday 2004
If we think of globalization like a billiard ball, it annihilates the rich virtues of each culture. - Pope Francis quote.
If we think of globalization like a billiard ball, it annihilates the rich virtues of each culture.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

globalization

Globalization, as an economic and social ideology, has negatively affected our poorest communities. - Pope Francis quote.
Globalization, as an economic and social ideology, has negatively affected our poorest communities.
— Pope Francis Address, CELAM conference, 21 May 2007

globalization

The religious vocation is a call from God to a heart that is ready, whether conscious of it or not. - Pope Francis quote.
The religious vocation is a call from God to a heart that is ready, whether conscious of it or not.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

priesthood

Our Lady best transmits to the faithful the joy of God's word, which first filled her with pleasure. - Pope Francis quote.
Our Lady best transmits to the faithful the joy of God's word, which first filled her with pleasure.
— Pope Francis Speech, “The Sunday Homily in Latin America,” 19 January 2005
There have been corrupt periods. There were very difficult periods, but the religion revived itself. - Pope Francis quote.
There have been corrupt periods. There were very difficult periods, but the religion revived itself.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Catholic church

Poor people are persecuted for demanding work, and rich people are applauded for fleeing from justice. - Pope Francis quote.
Poor people are persecuted for demanding work, and rich people are applauded for fleeing from justice.
— Pope Francis BBC News, 14 March 2013

inequality

Sometimes they have to put out a fire, but the vocation of the politician is not that of a firefighter. - Pope Francis quote.
Sometimes they have to put out a fire, but the vocation of the politician is not that of a firefighter.
— Pope Francis Speech, Archdiocesan Social Pastoral Conference, 16 October 2010

politicians

Lies and thievery (the principal ingredients of corruption) are always evils that destroy the community. - Pope Francis quote.
Lies and thievery (the principal ingredients of corruption) are always evils that destroy the community.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002
Keep asking why. I can't give you an answer, nor can any bishop, nor the Pope, but [God] will console you. - Pope Francis quote.
Keep asking why. I can't give you an answer, nor can any bishop, nor the Pope, but [God] will console you.
— Pope Francis Homily, 23 March 2012

faith

I almost always take [the subway] since it's fast, but I like the bus better because I can see the street. - Pope Francis quote.
I almost always take [the subway] since it's fast, but I like the bus better because I can see the street.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010
The Christian life is always a walk in the presence of God, but it is not exempt from struggles and trials. - Pope Francis quote.
The Christian life is always a walk in the presence of God, but it is not exempt from struggles and trials.
— Pope Francis Homily, 11 March 2006

Christianity

When I pray for the city of Buenos Aires, I give thanks for the fact that it was the city where I was born. - Pope Francis quote.
When I pray for the city of Buenos Aires, I give thanks for the fact that it was the city where I was born.
— Pope Francis Address to the First Congress of Regional Urban Parishes, 25 August 2011

Buenos Aires

Only with "the truth will set you free" is it possible to resolve the grave problems of people and nations. - Pope Francis quote.
Only with "the truth will set you free" is it possible to resolve the grave problems of people and nations.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 September 2004

truth

"Time yields experience," yes, but only if one takes the opportunity to "make experience out of experience." - Pope Francis quote.
"Time yields experience," yes, but only if one takes the opportunity to "make experience out of experience."
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

experience

True growth in human consciousness cannot be founded on anything other than the practice of dialogue and love. - Pope Francis quote.
True growth in human consciousness cannot be founded on anything other than the practice of dialogue and love.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

conversation

I invite you, men and women of God's word: love silence, search for silence, cultivate silence in your ministry! - Pope Francis quote.
I invite you, men and women of God's word: love silence, search for silence, cultivate silence in your ministry!
— Pope Francis Homily, 12 March 2005

silence

The media can, unfortunately, mirror society's worst aspects, or its most frivolous and narcissistic [qualities]. - Pope Francis quote.
The media can, unfortunately, mirror society's worst aspects, or its most frivolous and narcissistic [qualities].
— Pope Francis Homily, 10 October 2002

media

Our painful political history has all too often courted silence. The use of euphemisms has often anesthetized us. - Pope Francis quote.
Our painful political history has all too often courted silence. The use of euphemisms has often anesthetized us.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2008

Argentina

What world are we leaving our children? Maybe it would be better to ask, "What children are we giving this world?" - Pope Francis quote.
What world are we leaving our children? Maybe it would be better to ask, "What children are we giving this world?"
— Pope Francis Homily, 1 September 1999

children

If maturity was only something that developed as part of our genetic code, then we really wouldn't have much to do. - Pope Francis quote.
If maturity was only something that developed as part of our genetic code, then we really wouldn't have much to do.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

maturity

Is there anything more humiliating than being condemned [to an existence in which] you can't earn your daily bread? - Pope Francis quote.
Is there anything more humiliating than being condemned [to an existence in which] you can't earn your daily bread?
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

poverty

Suffering is not a virtue in and of itself, but it can be virtuous, depending upon the way in which we deal with it. - Pope Francis quote.
Suffering is not a virtue in and of itself, but it can be virtuous, depending upon the way in which we deal with it.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

suffering

Our schools should be a space where our children and young people can have contact with the vitality of our history. - Pope Francis quote.
Our schools should be a space where our children and young people can have contact with the vitality of our history.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

school

If to build something we always undo and step on what others have done before us, how can we create something solid? - Pope Francis quote.
If to build something we always undo and step on what others have done before us, how can we create something solid?
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

creativity

Rather than preventing [them], it seems [the Argentinian government has] opted for making inequalities even greater. - Pope Francis quote.
Rather than preventing [them], it seems [the Argentinian government has] opted for making inequalities even greater.
— Pope Francis Guardian, 13 March 2013

Argentina

The homily is not so much a moment of meditation and catechism as it is a living dialogue between God and his people. - Pope Francis quote.
The homily is not so much a moment of meditation and catechism as it is a living dialogue between God and his people.
— Pope Francis Speech, “The Sunday Homily in Latin America,” 19 January 2005
We have, in our hands, the responsibility and also the possibility of making this world much better for our children. - Pope Francis quote.
We have, in our hands, the responsibility and also the possibility of making this world much better for our children.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

inspirational

It astonished and perplexed me when I asked an acquaintance how he was doing and he responded, "Bad, but used to it." - Pope Francis quote.
It astonished and perplexed me when I asked an acquaintance how he was doing and he responded, "Bad, but used to it."
— Pope Francis Homily, 22 February 2012
I hope that there is no room among you for apostolic mummies...please, no! Go to a museum — mummies look better there. - Pope Francis quote.
I hope that there is no room among you for apostolic mummies...please, no! Go to a museum — mummies look better there.
— Pope Francis Address at Archdiocese Meeting, 12 March 2005
Often, we feel fatigued and tired. Laziness tempts our spirits. We also look at all there is to do and the few we are. - Pope Francis quote.
Often, we feel fatigued and tired. Laziness tempts our spirits. We also look at all there is to do and the few we are.
— Pope Francis Homily, Ash Wednesday 2004
Let us always pray for us, one for the other; let us pray for the whole world, so that there may be a great fraternity. - Pope Francis quote.
Let us always pray for us, one for the other; let us pray for the whole world, so that there may be a great fraternity.
— Pope Francis First blessing as Pope, 13 March 2013

prayer brotherhood of man

To love is much more than feeling tenderness or a certain emotion once in a while. It's a total challenge to creativity! - Pope Francis quote.
To love is much more than feeling tenderness or a certain emotion once in a while. It's a total challenge to creativity!
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

love

When someone is self-sufficient, when he has all the answers to all the questions, it's a sign that God is not with him. - Pope Francis quote.
When someone is self-sufficient, when he has all the answers to all the questions, it's a sign that God is not with him.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

community self-reliance

When a person or a people sells its dignity or bargains it ... everything else loses consistency and ceases to have worth. - Pope Francis quote.
When a person or a people sells its dignity or bargains it ... everything else loses consistency and ceases to have worth.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2007

dignity

Sectarian attitudes in the social and political life of a country are terrible. They separate, divide, and drive us apart. - Pope Francis quote.
Sectarian attitudes in the social and political life of a country are terrible. They separate, divide, and drive us apart.
— Pope Francis Guardian, 14 March 2013
In the life of every Christian ... there will be the experience of the desert, of interior purification, of the dark night. - Pope Francis quote.
In the life of every Christian ... there will be the experience of the desert, of interior purification, of the dark night.
— Pope Francis Homily, 11 March 2006

Christianity

There are those who look with eyes of statistics... and most of the time they only see numbers; they only know how to count. - Pope Francis quote.
There are those who look with eyes of statistics... and most of the time they only see numbers; they only know how to count.
— Pope Francis Homily, 12 March 2005

statistics

The Church is very conscious of the fact that the cheapest thing in Latin America, the thing with the lowest price, is life. - Pope Francis quote.
The Church is very conscious of the fact that the cheapest thing in Latin America, the thing with the lowest price, is life.
— Pope Francis Speech, 2 October 2007
In order to have dialogue, you have to know how to lower your defenses, open the doors of your home, and offer human warmth. - Pope Francis quote.
In order to have dialogue, you have to know how to lower your defenses, open the doors of your home, and offer human warmth.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

conversation

If, throughout history, the Church has changed so much, I do not see why we should not adapt it to the culture of [our] time. - Pope Francis quote.
If, throughout history, the Church has changed so much, I do not see why we should not adapt it to the culture of [our] time.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

church

[I] entered the Jesuit order because I was attracted by its... obedience and discipline. And by its focus on missionary work. - Pope Francis quote.
[I] entered the Jesuit order because I was attracted by its... obedience and discipline. And by its focus on missionary work.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010
Political society will only endure if the satisfaction of common human needs is our vocation. This is the role of the citizen. - Pope Francis quote.
Political society will only endure if the satisfaction of common human needs is our vocation. This is the role of the citizen.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 1999
At no other moment in history has humanity had the possibility, as it does now, of building a plural, unified world community. - Pope Francis quote.
At no other moment in history has humanity had the possibility, as it does now, of building a plural, unified world community.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

brotherhood of man globalization

In my own experience, I feel [the presence of] the Devil every time I'm tempted to do something that isn't what God asked of me. - Pope Francis quote.
In my own experience, I feel [the presence of] the Devil every time I'm tempted to do something that isn't what God asked of me.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

devil

The kind of globalization that makes things uniform is essentially imperialist. At the end it becomes a way of enslaving people. - Pope Francis quote.
The kind of globalization that makes things uniform is essentially imperialist. At the end it becomes a way of enslaving people.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

globalization

Isn't it fickle, mediocre vanity that makes us build walls, whether they are walls of riches or power, or violence and impunity? - Pope Francis quote.
Isn't it fickle, mediocre vanity that makes us build walls, whether they are walls of riches or power, or violence and impunity?
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2011

vanity

If our hearts are closed, if our hearts are made of stone, the stones find their way into our hands and we are ready to throw them. - Pope Francis quote.
If our hearts are closed, if our hearts are made of stone, the stones find their way into our hands and we are ready to throw them.
— Pope Francis

prejudice

There's no guru here who can explain the human mystery to us, nobody who can say that this will be this way and that we'll be okay. - Pope Francis quote.
There's no guru here who can explain the human mystery to us, nobody who can say that this will be this way and that we'll be okay.
— Pope Francis Homily, 23 March 2012

the human condition

Happy are we who, upon hearing the call to justice, feel our insides burn when we see the misery of millions of people in the world. - Pope Francis quote.
Happy are we who, upon hearing the call to justice, feel our insides burn when we see the misery of millions of people in the world.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2006

suffering

Situations can change; people can change. Be the first to seek to bring good. Do not grow accustomed to evil, but defeat it with good. - Pope Francis quote.
Situations can change; people can change. Be the first to seek to bring good. Do not grow accustomed to evil, but defeat it with good.
— Pope Francis The Church of Mercy

evil Goodness

It isn't bad if religion dialogues with the political power; the problem is when it associates with it to do business under the table. - Pope Francis quote.
It isn't bad if religion dialogues with the political power; the problem is when it associates with it to do business under the table.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

church and state

The impatience of the illustrious elites doesn't understand the laborious, daily march of the people, nor the message of the wise man. - Pope Francis quote.
The impatience of the illustrious elites doesn't understand the laborious, daily march of the people, nor the message of the wise man.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2004
If the most powerful used all his power to serve and to pardon, he who used his power for anything else would end up looking ridiculous. - Pope Francis quote.
If the most powerful used all his power to serve and to pardon, he who used his power for anything else would end up looking ridiculous.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2005

power

God's image is the married couple, a man and woman, together. Not just the man. Not just the woman. No, both of them. That's God's image. - Pope Francis quote.
God's image is the married couple, a man and woman, together. Not just the man. Not just the woman. No, both of them. That's God's image.
— Pope Francis

Catholicism

The essential function of the school is to form free citizens with the capacity to defend their rights and comply with their obligations. - Pope Francis quote.
The essential function of the school is to form free citizens with the capacity to defend their rights and comply with their obligations.
— Pope Francis Letter for the Youth, 1 October 2005

school

Let us never give in to pessimism, to that bitterness that the Devil offers us every day. Do not give in to pessimism and discouragement. - Pope Francis quote.
Let us never give in to pessimism, to that bitterness that the Devil offers us every day. Do not give in to pessimism and discouragement.
— Pope Francis Address to Cardinals, 15 March 2013

pessimism

Only a mother and a father can say with joy, with pride, and with responsibility: we are going to be parents; we have conceived our child. - Pope Francis quote.
Only a mother and a father can say with joy, with pride, and with responsibility: we are going to be parents; we have conceived our child.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2007

parenting

For many, Buenos Aires is a factory of slaves...a meat grinder which destroys their lives, breaks their will, and deprives them of freedom. - Pope Francis quote.
For many, Buenos Aires is a factory of slaves...a meat grinder which destroys their lives, breaks their will, and deprives them of freedom.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 15 December 2011

Buenos Aires

This gesture is an invitation to the heart of every Christian, because we never lose if we imitate Jesus, if we serve our suffering brothers. - Pope Francis quote.
This gesture is an invitation to the heart of every Christian, because we never lose if we imitate Jesus, if we serve our suffering brothers.
— Pope Francis Wall Street Journal, 14 March 2013
A good Sunday homily should have the taste of that new wine, which renews the heart of he who is preaching as it renews that of his listeners. - Pope Francis quote.
A good Sunday homily should have the taste of that new wine, which renews the heart of he who is preaching as it renews that of his listeners.
— Pope Francis Speech, “The Sunday Homily in Latin America,” 19 January 2005
The Church is in great need of moral theologians who can deepen Jesus's moral proposition [and] make it comprehensible to the contemporary man. - Pope Francis quote.
The Church is in great need of moral theologians who can deepen Jesus's moral proposition [and] make it comprehensible to the contemporary man.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 September 2004

priesthood

Vanity, showing off, is an attitude that reduces spirituality to a worldly thing, which is the worst sin that could be committed in the Church. - Pope Francis quote.
Vanity, showing off, is an attitude that reduces spirituality to a worldly thing, which is the worst sin that could be committed in the Church.
— Pope Francis America magazine, 13 March 2013

vanity

How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure but it is news when the stock market loses two points? - Pope Francis quote.
How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure but it is news when the stock market loses two points?
— Pope Francis
There is not a single violation of the dignity of a woman or man that can be justified in the name of any other thing or idea. Not a single one. - Pope Francis quote.
There is not a single violation of the dignity of a woman or man that can be justified in the name of any other thing or idea. Not a single one.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

dignity

For me, sin is not a stain that I have to clean. What I should do is ask pardon and make reconciliation, not stop by the cleaner's on my way home. - Pope Francis quote.
For me, sin is not a stain that I have to clean. What I should do is ask pardon and make reconciliation, not stop by the cleaner's on my way home.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

sin

The word of God always offers a choice: convert and ask for help and more light, or close and cling even more tightly to your chains and darkness. - Pope Francis quote.
The word of God always offers a choice: convert and ask for help and more light, or close and cling even more tightly to your chains and darkness.
— Pope Francis Homily, 13 April 2006

God Christianity

The child has absolutely no responsibility for the state of his parents' marriage. And often a baptism can be a new start for the parents as well. - Pope Francis quote.
The child has absolutely no responsibility for the state of his parents' marriage. And often a baptism can be a new start for the parents as well.
— Pope Francis 30 Giorni, August 2009
Human rights are not only violated by terrorism, repression, or assassination, but also by unfair economic structures that create huge inequalities. - Pope Francis quote.
Human rights are not only violated by terrorism, repression, or assassination, but also by unfair economic structures that create huge inequalities.
— Pope Francis Guardian, 13 March 2013

inequality

When we read about creation in Genesis, we run the risk of imagining God was a magician, with a magic wand able to do everything.  But that is not so. - Pope Francis quote.
When we read about creation in Genesis, we run the risk of imagining God was a magician, with a magic wand able to do everything.  But that is not so.
— Pope Francis

God

When one is really searching for the truth, one is doing it for good. You don't look for the truth to divide, confront, attack, belittle, or dissolve. - Pope Francis quote.
When one is really searching for the truth, one is doing it for good. You don't look for the truth to divide, confront, attack, belittle, or dissolve.
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

truth

Without these three attitudes — tenderness, hope, and patience — it's impossible to respect life and the growth of the child who is waiting to be born. - Pope Francis quote.
Without these three attitudes — tenderness, hope, and patience — it's impossible to respect life and the growth of the child who is waiting to be born.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 March 2004

parenting

And we are here today to pray for a man named Néstor, who was received by the hands of God and who, in his moment, was anointed by his people [to lead]. - Pope Francis quote.
And we are here today to pray for a man named Néstor, who was received by the hands of God and who, in his moment, was anointed by his people [to lead].
— Pope Francis Homily, 27 October 2010
Feeling like a sinner is one of the most beautiful things that can happen to a person if it leads them to the ultimate consequences [of reconciliation]. - Pope Francis quote.
Feeling like a sinner is one of the most beautiful things that can happen to a person if it leads them to the ultimate consequences [of reconciliation].
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

sin

As you know, the duty of the Conclave is to give Rome a bishop. It seems that my brother cardinals went almost to the end of the world. But here we are. - Pope Francis quote.
As you know, the duty of the Conclave is to give Rome a bishop. It seems that my brother cardinals went almost to the end of the world. But here we are.
— Pope Francis First blessing as Pope, 13 March 2013
The horrors committed under the military governments were revealed only drip by drip, but for me they are still one of the worst blights on this country. - Pope Francis quote.
The horrors committed under the military governments were revealed only drip by drip, but for me they are still one of the worst blights on this country.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Argentina

If we close the door of our heart in His face, God suffers. Even though He's used to it, He suffers. And we lose the opportunity for Him to make us happy. - Pope Francis quote.
If we close the door of our heart in His face, God suffers. Even though He's used to it, He suffers. And we lose the opportunity for Him to make us happy.
— Pope Francis Homily, 15 March 2008

God

The media only writes about the sinners and the scandals, he said, but that's normal, because 'a tree that falls makes more noise than a forest that grows. - Pope Francis quote.
The media only writes about the sinners and the scandals, he said, but that's normal, because 'a tree that falls makes more noise than a forest that grows.
— Pope Francis

media

Mercy is the Lord's most powerful message. It's not easy to trust oneself to the mercy of God, because [His mercy] is an unfathomable abyss — but we must do it! - Pope Francis quote.
Mercy is the Lord's most powerful message. It's not easy to trust oneself to the mercy of God, because [His mercy] is an unfathomable abyss — but we must do it!
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 March 2013

mercy

In a society where lies, cover-ups, and hypocrisy have caused people to lose basic trust in the social contract, what could be more revolutionary than the truth? - Pope Francis quote.
In a society where lies, cover-ups, and hypocrisy have caused people to lose basic trust in the social contract, what could be more revolutionary than the truth?
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

truth

Before all else, the Gospel invites us to respond to the God of love who saves us, to see God in others and to go forth from ourselves to seek the good of others. - Pope Francis quote.
Before all else, the Gospel invites us to respond to the God of love who saves us, to see God in others and to go forth from ourselves to seek the good of others.
— Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium: The Joy of the Gospel

God Christianity

No one has the right to experiment with children and young people. They are the hope of the people, and we must take care of them by making responsible decisions. - Pope Francis quote.
No one has the right to experiment with children and young people. They are the hope of the people, and we must take care of them by making responsible decisions.
— Pope Francis Homily, 30 January 2005
Some people say to me, "But, Father, politicians aren't doing anything either!" But what are you doing? If you aren't doing anything, then scream [about yourself]! - Pope Francis quote.
Some people say to me, "But, Father, politicians aren't doing anything either!" But what are you doing? If you aren't doing anything, then scream [about yourself]!
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2008

action politicians

The great danger — or the great temptation — of helping the poor lies in falling into the role of paternalistic protector, which ultimately doesn't let people grow. - Pope Francis quote.
The great danger — or the great temptation — of helping the poor lies in falling into the role of paternalistic protector, which ultimately doesn't let people grow.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

helping others

The double life doesn't do anyone good; I don't like it, it signifies a lie. If you can't overcome [your sexual needs], make a decision [priesthood or secular life]. - Pope Francis quote.
The double life doesn't do anyone good; I don't like it, it signifies a lie. If you can't overcome [your sexual needs], make a decision [priesthood or secular life].
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

priesthood

Distracted city, dispersed city, egotistical city: cry. You need to be purified by your tears... . Let this scatterbrained, superficial city be purified by its grief. - Pope Francis quote.
Distracted city, dispersed city, egotistical city: cry. You need to be purified by your tears... . Let this scatterbrained, superficial city be purified by its grief.
— Pope Francis Homily, 30 December 2005

Buenos Aires

It's horrific for me to go to a jail because what you see there is very hard. But I go anyway because God wants me to be face-to-face with the one who is most in need. - Pope Francis quote.
It's horrific for me to go to a jail because what you see there is very hard. But I go anyway because God wants me to be face-to-face with the one who is most in need.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010
Power is service, and service, to do it well, should attend to the smallest detail, the one that makes the other feel as if he has been well cared for [and] dignified. - Pope Francis quote.
Power is service, and service, to do it well, should attend to the smallest detail, the one that makes the other feel as if he has been well cared for [and] dignified.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2005

service

Women's presence in the Church hasn't been emphasized much because the temptation of machismo didn't allow a space to make visible the place of women in the community. - Pope Francis quote.
Women's presence in the Church hasn't been emphasized much because the temptation of machismo didn't allow a space to make visible the place of women in the community.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

women Catholicism

Politics is a noble activity. We should revalue it, practice it with vocation and a dedication that requires testimony, martyrdom — that is, to die for the common good. - Pope Francis quote.
Politics is a noble activity. We should revalue it, practice it with vocation and a dedication that requires testimony, martyrdom — that is, to die for the common good.
— Pope Francis Telegraph, 13 March 2013

politics

I don't say that [the atheist's] life is condemned [to Hell], because I am convinced I don't have the right to pass judgment about the moral uprightness of that person. - Pope Francis quote.
I don't say that [the atheist's] life is condemned [to Hell], because I am convinced I don't have the right to pass judgment about the moral uprightness of that person.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

atheism

We human beings have a complex relationship with the world in which we live, precisely because of our dual condition of being children of the earth and children of God. - Pope Francis quote.
We human beings have a complex relationship with the world in which we live, precisely because of our dual condition of being children of the earth and children of God.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

God the human condition

I would like to give you a blessing, but first I want to ask you for a favor. Before the bishop blesses the people, I ask that you pray to the Lord so that He blesses me. - Pope Francis quote.
I would like to give you a blessing, but first I want to ask you for a favor. Before the bishop blesses the people, I ask that you pray to the Lord so that He blesses me.
— Pope Francis First blessing as Pope, 13 March 2013
It is from pain and our own limits where we best learn to grow, and from our own flaws surges the deep question: haven't we suffered enough to decide to break old patterns? - Pope Francis quote.
It is from pain and our own limits where we best learn to grow, and from our own flaws surges the deep question: haven't we suffered enough to decide to break old patterns?
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2002

suffering

Nobody can go off to battle unless he is fully convinced of victory beforehand. If we start without confidence, we have already lost half the battle and we bury our talents. - Pope Francis quote.
Nobody can go off to battle unless he is fully convinced of victory beforehand. If we start without confidence, we have already lost half the battle and we bury our talents.
— Pope Francis

confidence optimism

Those of us who do nothing... are complicit in exploitation, slavery [and other social ills.] We are complicit through our silence, through our inaction, through our apathy. - Pope Francis quote.
Those of us who do nothing... are complicit in exploitation, slavery [and other social ills.] We are complicit through our silence, through our inaction, through our apathy.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 September 2008

apathy

[Francis of Assisi] brought to Christianity an idea of poverty against the luxury, pride, [and] vanity of the civil and ecclesiastical powers of the time. He changed history. - Pope Francis quote.
[Francis of Assisi] brought to Christianity an idea of poverty against the luxury, pride, [and] vanity of the civil and ecclesiastical powers of the time. He changed history.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010
The Church tries to demonstrate the modern mentality that the family founded on marriage has two essential values for all societies and all cultures: stability and fecundity. - Pope Francis quote.
The Church tries to demonstrate the modern mentality that the family founded on marriage has two essential values for all societies and all cultures: stability and fecundity.
— Pope Francis Parish and Family, 18 January 2007

family

Because it is human, sometimes beauty is tragic, surprising, moving; on some occasions, it compels us to think about what we do not want or it shows us the error of our ways. - Pope Francis quote.
Because it is human, sometimes beauty is tragic, surprising, moving; on some occasions, it compels us to think about what we do not want or it shows us the error of our ways.
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

beauty

How lovely it is to walk this way, slowly, feeling the presence of others, singing, looking forward, looking at the sky, praying for those who aren't with us in Buenos Aires! - Pope Francis quote.
How lovely it is to walk this way, slowly, feeling the presence of others, singing, looking forward, looking at the sky, praying for those who aren't with us in Buenos Aires!
— Pope Francis Homily, 24 May 2008

Buenos Aires

In the predominant neoliberal culture, the external, the immediate, the visible, the fast, the superficial: these occupy first place, and the real cedes ground to appearances. - Pope Francis quote.
In the predominant neoliberal culture, the external, the immediate, the visible, the fast, the superficial: these occupy first place, and the real cedes ground to appearances.
— Pope Francis Speech, CELAM conference, 21 May 2007

capitalism

I sincerely hope I can contribute to the progress there has been in relations between Jews and Catholics since the Second Vatican Council in a spirit of renewed collaboration. - Pope Francis quote.
I sincerely hope I can contribute to the progress there has been in relations between Jews and Catholics since the Second Vatican Council in a spirit of renewed collaboration.
— Pope Francis Letter to Rome’s Chief Rabbi, 14 March 2013
Look at the Church, holy and sinful as it is; look at certain shortcomings and sins, without losing sight of the holiness of so many men and women who work in the Church today. - Pope Francis quote.
Look at the Church, holy and sinful as it is; look at certain shortcomings and sins, without losing sight of the holiness of so many men and women who work in the Church today.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012

Catholic church

Globalization as a unidirectional and uniform imposition of values, practices, and goods goes hand in hand with imitation and cultural, intellectual, and spiritual subordination. - Pope Francis quote.
Globalization as a unidirectional and uniform imposition of values, practices, and goods goes hand in hand with imitation and cultural, intellectual, and spiritual subordination.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

globalization

Spiritual worldliness is a form of religious anthropocentrism that has Gnostic elements. Careerism and the search for a promotion come under the category of spiritual worldliness. - Pope Francis quote.
Spiritual worldliness is a form of religious anthropocentrism that has Gnostic elements. Careerism and the search for a promotion come under the category of spiritual worldliness.
— Pope Francis America magazine, 13 March 2013
Instead of imposing new obligations, (Christians) should appear as people who wish to share their joy, who point to a horizon of beauty and who invite others to a delicious banquet. - Pope Francis quote.
Instead of imposing new obligations, (Christians) should appear as people who wish to share their joy, who point to a horizon of beauty and who invite others to a delicious banquet.
— Pope Francis Evangelii Gaudium: The Joy of the Gospel

evangelism

The party occupies an important place. [It is] gratitude put in the form of joy, song, and dance. At a party, all the body's senses come into play, all in a setting of pleasure and joy. - Pope Francis quote.
The party occupies an important place. [It is] gratitude put in the form of joy, song, and dance. At a party, all the body's senses come into play, all in a setting of pleasure and joy.
— Pope Francis Homily, 19 January 2008
It's true that the hedonistic, consumerist, narcissistic culture is infiltrating Catholicism. It's contaminating us... . In it rests the loss of the religious, which is what I fear most. - Pope Francis quote.
It's true that the hedonistic, consumerist, narcissistic culture is infiltrating Catholicism. It's contaminating us... . In it rests the loss of the religious, which is what I fear most.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Catholicism

Francis is also the man of peace. That is how the name came into my heart: Francis of Assisi. For me, he is the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation. - Pope Francis quote.
Francis is also the man of peace. That is how the name came into my heart: Francis of Assisi. For me, he is the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013
Jesus teaches us another way. Go out! Go out! Share your testimony, go out and interact with your brothers, go out and share, go out and ask! Become the Word in body as well as in spirit. - Pope Francis quote.
Jesus teaches us another way. Go out! Go out! Share your testimony, go out and interact with your brothers, go out and share, go out and ask! Become the Word in body as well as in spirit.
— Pope Francis New York Daily News, 14 March 2013

evangelism priesthood

It is true that at one time, [the Church] really emphasized the matter of suffering. The exaltation of suffering in the Church depends a great deal on the era and the culture [in question]. - Pope Francis quote.
It is true that at one time, [the Church] really emphasized the matter of suffering. The exaltation of suffering in the Church depends a great deal on the era and the culture [in question].
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

Catholic church

Roles of fatherhood, motherhood, being a son or daughter, and brother or sister, are the basis of any society, and without them every society would lose consistency and turn toward anarchy. - Pope Francis quote.
Roles of fatherhood, motherhood, being a son or daughter, and brother or sister, are the basis of any society, and without them every society would lose consistency and turn toward anarchy.
— Pope Francis Parish and Family, 18 January 2007

family

Not everyone present belongs to the Catholic faith, and others do not believe. I respect the conscience of each one of you, knowing that each one of you is a child of God. May God bless you. - Pope Francis quote.
Not everyone present belongs to the Catholic faith, and others do not believe. I respect the conscience of each one of you, knowing that each one of you is a child of God. May God bless you.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013

atheism

When the husband or the wife gets accustomed to [the other's] love and to family, then they begin to stop valuing one another, to stop giving thanks and to stop taking care of what they have. - Pope Francis quote.
When the husband or the wife gets accustomed to [the other's] love and to family, then they begin to stop valuing one another, to stop giving thanks and to stop taking care of what they have.
— Pope Francis Homily, 17 February 2010

marriage

Christ is the Church's pastor, but His presence in history passes through the freedom of human beings; from their midst one is chosen to serve as his vicar, the successor of the Apostle Peter. - Pope Francis quote.
Christ is the Church's pastor, but His presence in history passes through the freedom of human beings; from their midst one is chosen to serve as his vicar, the successor of the Apostle Peter.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013
When images and information have as their sole objective the intent of provoking consumption or manipulating people...we find ourselves in front of an assault, an act of violence, a kidnapping. - Pope Francis quote.
When images and information have as their sole objective the intent of provoking consumption or manipulating people...we find ourselves in front of an assault, an act of violence, a kidnapping.
— Pope Francis Homily, 10 October 2002

advertising

In the Church, there were Christians from [all] camps: Christians who died as guerrillas, Christians who helped save people, and Christian oppressors who believed they were saving the homeland. - Pope Francis quote.
In the Church, there were Christians from [all] camps: Christians who died as guerrillas, Christians who helped save people, and Christian oppressors who believed they were saving the homeland.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Argentina

Idolatry, then, is always polytheism, an aimless passing from one lord to another. Idolatry does not offer a journey but rather a plethora of paths leading nowhere and forming a vast labyrinth. - Pope Francis quote.
Idolatry, then, is always polytheism, an aimless passing from one lord to another. Idolatry does not offer a journey but rather a plethora of paths leading nowhere and forming a vast labyrinth.
— Pope Francis Lumen Fidei: Enciclica sulla Fede

idolatry

Look at a peacock. If you look from the front, it's very pretty. But take a few steps back and look at it from behind... He who falls into self-referential vanity is actually hiding deep misery. - Pope Francis quote.
Look at a peacock. If you look from the front, it's very pretty. But take a few steps back and look at it from behind... He who falls into self-referential vanity is actually hiding deep misery.
— Pope Francis El Mundo, 14 March 2013

vanity

It's like in soccer: you have to deal with the penalties where they fall; you can't choose where they're going to land. Life is like that, and you have to deal with it even if you don't like it. - Pope Francis quote.
It's like in soccer: you have to deal with the penalties where they fall; you can't choose where they're going to land. Life is like that, and you have to deal with it even if you don't like it.
— Pope Francis Homily, 10 March 2012

life

I hope that this journey of the Church that we begin today and which my cardinal vicar, who is here with me, will help me with, may be fruitful for the evangelization of this beautiful city [Rome]. - Pope Francis quote.
I hope that this journey of the Church that we begin today and which my cardinal vicar, who is here with me, will help me with, may be fruitful for the evangelization of this beautiful city [Rome].
— Pope Francis Reuters, 13 March 2013
God is not like the idols, who have ears but don't listen. He's not like the powerful, who listen only to what they wish. He listens to everything ... and He doesn't just listen; He loves to listen. - Pope Francis quote.
God is not like the idols, who have ears but don't listen. He's not like the powerful, who listen only to what they wish. He listens to everything ... and He doesn't just listen; He loves to listen.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2006

God

Before, it was one of those punishments that Christianity accepted. But today moral conscience has become more refined and the catechism says it would be better if [capital punishment] didn't exist. - Pope Francis quote.
Before, it was one of those punishments that Christianity accepted. But today moral conscience has become more refined and the catechism says it would be better if [capital punishment] didn't exist.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010
What is happening to our children? Or better put: what is happening with us, that we're incapable of taking charge of the situation of abandonment and loneliness in which our children find themselves? - Pope Francis quote.
What is happening to our children? Or better put: what is happening with us, that we're incapable of taking charge of the situation of abandonment and loneliness in which our children find themselves?
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

children

And now, let us start this journey, Bishop and people, Bishop and people, this journey of the Church of Rome, which leads all the Churches in charity, a journey of fraternity, of love, of trust among us. - Pope Francis quote.
And now, let us start this journey, Bishop and people, Bishop and people, this journey of the Church of Rome, which leads all the Churches in charity, a journey of fraternity, of love, of trust among us.
— Pope Francis First blessing as Pope, 13 March 2013
Globalization has signified an accelerated deterioration of cultural roots, what with the invasion of other cultural tendencies, be they in music, fast-food businesses, malls, means of communication, etc. - Pope Francis quote.
Globalization has signified an accelerated deterioration of cultural roots, what with the invasion of other cultural tendencies, be they in music, fast-food businesses, malls, means of communication, etc.
— Pope Francis Address, CELAM conference, 21 May 2007

globalization

When one does not walk, one halts. When one does not build on stone, what happens? That happens which happens to children on the beach when they make sand castles: it all comes down; it is without substance. - Pope Francis quote.
When one does not walk, one halts. When one does not build on stone, what happens? That happens which happens to children on the beach when they make sand castles: it all comes down; it is without substance.
— Pope Francis Homily, first papal Mass, 14 March 2013

Catholicism

The most important thing in the life of every man and every woman is not that they should never fall along the way. The important thing is always to get back up, not to stay on the ground licking your wounds. - Pope Francis quote.
The most important thing in the life of every man and every woman is not that they should never fall along the way. The important thing is always to get back up, not to stay on the ground licking your wounds.
— Pope Francis The Name of God is Mercy

motivational adversity

The Church is Mother and talks to the people as a mother talks to her child, with that confidence that the child already knows that everything he is being taught is for his good, because he knows he is loved. - Pope Francis quote.
The Church is Mother and talks to the people as a mother talks to her child, with that confidence that the child already knows that everything he is being taught is for his good, because he knows he is loved.
— Pope Francis Speech, “The Sunday Homily in Latin America,” 19 January 2005

church

Money also has a homeland, and he who exploits an industry in a country and takes the money to another country to store it is sinning, because he is not honoring with that money that country that enriched him. - Pope Francis quote.
Money also has a homeland, and he who exploits an industry in a country and takes the money to another country to store it is sinning, because he is not honoring with that money that country that enriched him.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

globalization

It seems that nobody here hates the immigrant. But subtle xenophobia exists... . If we are sincere, we have to recognize that among us there is a subtle form of xenophobia, which is exploitation of the immigrant. - Pope Francis quote.
It seems that nobody here hates the immigrant. But subtle xenophobia exists... . If we are sincere, we have to recognize that among us there is a subtle form of xenophobia, which is exploitation of the immigrant.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 September 2008
The challenge of creative beings is to be suspicious of every discourse, thought, affirmation, or proposal that presents itself as "the only possible path." There are always others. There is always another possibility. - Pope Francis quote.
The challenge of creative beings is to be suspicious of every discourse, thought, affirmation, or proposal that presents itself as "the only possible path." There are always others. There is always another possibility.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

creativity open-mindedness

We have to go out and talk to people in the city who we've seen on their balconies. We have to come out of our shell and tell them that Jesus lives... to say it with joy...even though it seems a little crazy sometimes. - Pope Francis quote.
We have to go out and talk to people in the city who we've seen on their balconies. We have to come out of our shell and tell them that Jesus lives... to say it with joy...even though it seems a little crazy sometimes.
— Pope Francis Homily, 11 March 2000

evangelism

Artists know well that beauty isn't solely consoling, but that it can also be disturbing. The grand masters have known how to present with beauty those realities of the human condition that are most tragic and painful. - Pope Francis quote.
Artists know well that beauty isn't solely consoling, but that it can also be disturbing. The grand masters have known how to present with beauty those realities of the human condition that are most tragic and painful.
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

art beauty

As pastors, it behooves each of us who offers Mass to renew each day, every Sunday, our passion for preparing the homily, ensuring, first of all, that knowledge of and love for the word of God are growing inside ourselves. - Pope Francis quote.
As pastors, it behooves each of us who offers Mass to renew each day, every Sunday, our passion for preparing the homily, ensuring, first of all, that knowledge of and love for the word of God are growing inside ourselves.
— Pope Francis Speech, “The Sunday Homily in Latin America,” 19 January 2005
People ask why we spend our time touching a statue when we could be out looking for work. We do it because faith will see us through. We do it because faith endures. We do it because faith is all we have at a time like this. - Pope Francis quote.
People ask why we spend our time touching a statue when we could be out looking for work. We do it because faith will see us through. We do it because faith endures. We do it because faith is all we have at a time like this.
— Pope Francis Washington Post, 8 August 2003

faith idolatry

Benedict XVI has insisted on the renewal of faith being a priority and presents faith as a gift that must be passed on, a gift to be offered to others and to be shared as a gratuitous act. It is not a possession, but a mission. - Pope Francis quote.
Benedict XVI has insisted on the renewal of faith being a priority and presents faith as a gift that must be passed on, a gift to be offered to others and to be shared as a gratuitous act. It is not a possession, but a mission.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012

faith

I don't have all the answers. Nor do I have all the questions... . I confess that, in general, because of my temperament, the first response that occurs to me is the wrong one... . It's curious, but that's the way it is with me. - Pope Francis quote.
I don't have all the answers. Nor do I have all the questions... . I confess that, in general, because of my temperament, the first response that occurs to me is the wrong one... . It's curious, but that's the way it is with me.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

personal

From the old "rules of courtesy," nearly nonexistent today, to legal obligations like paying taxes, all these are essential if we are to coexist and walk on a firmer path, to be more respectful and to create a sense of community. - Pope Francis quote.
From the old "rules of courtesy," nearly nonexistent today, to legal obligations like paying taxes, all these are essential if we are to coexist and walk on a firmer path, to be more respectful and to create a sense of community.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

law

The inclusion or exclusion of the wounded person by the wayside defines all economic, political, social, and religious projects. All of us, each day, are presented with the option of being Good Samaritans or indifferent passersby. - Pope Francis quote.
The inclusion or exclusion of the wounded person by the wayside defines all economic, political, social, and religious projects. All of us, each day, are presented with the option of being Good Samaritans or indifferent passersby.
— Pope Francis AP Worldstream, 17 April 2005

helping others

The Pope [Benedict XVI]... talked about James and John and the tensions between the first followers of Jesus on who should be first. This shows us that certain attitudes and arguments have existed in the Church since the beginning. - Pope Francis quote.
The Pope [Benedict XVI]... talked about James and John and the tensions between the first followers of Jesus on who should be first. This shows us that certain attitudes and arguments have existed in the Church since the beginning.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012
Human history, our history, the history of every one of us is never "finished"; it never runs out of possibilities. Rather, it is always opening to the new — to what, until now, we'd never even had in mind. To what seemed impossible. - Pope Francis quote.
Human history, our history, the history of every one of us is never "finished"; it never runs out of possibilities. Rather, it is always opening to the new — to what, until now, we'd never even had in mind. To what seemed impossible.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

moving forward

To make memories, to keep alive the memory of triumphs and failures, of moments of happiness and of suffering, is the only way to avoid being "children" in the worst sense of the word: immature, inexperienced, tremendously vulnerable. - Pope Francis quote.
To make memories, to keep alive the memory of triumphs and failures, of moments of happiness and of suffering, is the only way to avoid being "children" in the worst sense of the word: immature, inexperienced, tremendously vulnerable.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

memory

When we walk without the cross, when we build without the cross, and when we profess Christ without the cross, we are not disciples of the Lord: we are worldly; we are bishops, priests, cardinals, popes, but not disciples of the Lord. - Pope Francis quote.
When we walk without the cross, when we build without the cross, and when we profess Christ without the cross, we are not disciples of the Lord: we are worldly; we are bishops, priests, cardinals, popes, but not disciples of the Lord.
— Pope Francis Homily, first papal Mass, 14 March 2013

Christianity

When the news only makes us exclaim, "What an atrocity!" and immediately turn the page or change the channel, then we have destroyed [the sense of] proximity [to suffering], [and] we have widened even more the space that separates us. - Pope Francis quote.
When the news only makes us exclaim, "What an atrocity!" and immediately turn the page or change the channel, then we have destroyed [the sense of] proximity [to suffering], [and] we have widened even more the space that separates us.
— Pope Francis Speech, ADEPA, 6 April 2006

apathy

Intention is not enough. It's not enough for our brothers and sisters who are most in need, the victims of injustice and exclusion, those whom "the interior of our hearts" doesn't help in their need. It's not even enough for ourselves. - Pope Francis quote.
Intention is not enough. It's not enough for our brothers and sisters who are most in need, the victims of injustice and exclusion, those whom "the interior of our hearts" doesn't help in their need. It's not even enough for ourselves.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

action

There's always talk about the Vatican's gold, but that's a museum. The Vatican's balance is public, and it's always in deficit; what enters in donations or through museum visits goes to leprosariums, schools, and communities [in need]. - Pope Francis quote.
There's always talk about the Vatican's gold, but that's a museum. The Vatican's balance is public, and it's always in deficit; what enters in donations or through museum visits goes to leprosariums, schools, and communities [in need].
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Catholic church

A person who works should take time to rest, to spend time with family, to enjoy [life], to read, listen to music, play a sport. When work doesn't allow room for healthy leisure time, for restorative rest, then it enslaves [the worker]. - Pope Francis quote.
A person who works should take time to rest, to spend time with family, to enjoy [life], to read, listen to music, play a sport. When work doesn't allow room for healthy leisure time, for restorative rest, then it enslaves [the worker].
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

work leisure

What is the spirit of Christmas? Over the years the world of culture has tried to express it in a thousand ways and has managed to take us closer to the meaning of the Christmas spirit. How many Christmas stories bring us closer to this? - Pope Francis quote.
What is the spirit of Christmas? Over the years the world of culture has tried to express it in a thousand ways and has managed to take us closer to the meaning of the Christmas spirit. How many Christmas stories bring us closer to this?
— Pope Francis La Nación, 23 December 2011

Christmas

Once man has lost the fundamental orientation which unifies his existence, he breaks down into the multiplicity of his desires; in refusing to await the time of promise, his life-story disintegrates into a myriad of unconnected instants. - Pope Francis quote.
Once man has lost the fundamental orientation which unifies his existence, he breaks down into the multiplicity of his desires; in refusing to await the time of promise, his life-story disintegrates into a myriad of unconnected instants.
— Pope Francis Lumen Fidei: Enciclica sulla Fede

faith

There is no middle ground: it's either light or dark, haughtiness or humility, the truth or the lie. We either open the door to Jesus, who comes to save us, or close it in [our belief in] self-sufficiency and the pride of self-salvation. - Pope Francis quote.
There is no middle ground: it's either light or dark, haughtiness or humility, the truth or the lie. We either open the door to Jesus, who comes to save us, or close it in [our belief in] self-sufficiency and the pride of self-salvation.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 December 2003
The things that are truly important require time: to learn a craft or a profession, to know a person and establish an enduring relationship of love or friendship, to know how to distinguish the important from the things we can do without. - Pope Francis quote.
The things that are truly important require time: to learn a craft or a profession, to know a person and establish an enduring relationship of love or friendship, to know how to distinguish the important from the things we can do without.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

time

Sometimes, I ask myself if we, the Church, are complicit with a culture of exclusion, one in which there is no longer space for the old person, for the child, where there is no time to stop on the side of the road like the Good Samaritan. - Pope Francis quote.
Sometimes, I ask myself if we, the Church, are complicit with a culture of exclusion, one in which there is no longer space for the old person, for the child, where there is no time to stop on the side of the road like the Good Samaritan.
— Pope Francis Homily, 12 March 2005

church

I thank my father so much for sending me to work [at the age of 13]. Working was one of those things that made me a better person, and, in particular, in the laboratory [where he worked], I learned the good and the bad of all human labor. - Pope Francis quote.
I thank my father so much for sending me to work [at the age of 13]. Working was one of those things that made me a better person, and, in particular, in the laboratory [where he worked], I learned the good and the bad of all human labor.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

work

The socioeconomic crisis and the resulting increase in poverty has its origins in policies inspired by forms of neoliberalism that consider profit and the laws of the market as absolute parameters above the dignity of people or of peoples. - Pope Francis quote.
The socioeconomic crisis and the resulting increase in poverty has its origins in policies inspired by forms of neoliberalism that consider profit and the laws of the market as absolute parameters above the dignity of people or of peoples.
— Pope Francis Guardian, 14 March 2013

capitalism

Leadership is an art ... that can be learned. It is also a science ... that can be studied. It is a job...that demands dedication, effort, and tenacity. But above all, it is a mystery... that cannot always be explained with rational logic. - Pope Francis quote.
Leadership is an art ... that can be learned. It is also a science ... that can be studied. It is a job...that demands dedication, effort, and tenacity. But above all, it is a mystery... that cannot always be explained with rational logic.
— Pope Francis Speech, Archdiocesan Social Pastoral Conference, 16 October 2010

leadership

The man of the poor. The man of peace. The man who loved and cared for creation — and in this moment we don't have such a great relationship with the creator. The man who gives us this spirit of peace, the poor man who wanted a poor church. - Pope Francis quote.
The man of the poor. The man of peace. The man who loved and cared for creation — and in this moment we don't have such a great relationship with the creator. The man who gives us this spirit of peace, the poor man who wanted a poor church.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013
To walk, to build, to confess. But the matter is not so easy, because in walking, in building, in confessing, at times there are shocks, there are movements that are not properly movements of the journey: they are movements that set us back. - Pope Francis quote.
To walk, to build, to confess. But the matter is not so easy, because in walking, in building, in confessing, at times there are shocks, there are movements that are not properly movements of the journey: they are movements that set us back.
— Pope Francis Homily, first papal Mass, 14 March 2013

Catholicism

Technology can help create or disorient. It can re-create things and inform us about reality, thus helping us see the options and decisions before us, or it can, on the contrary, create virtual simulations, illusions, fantasies, and fictions. - Pope Francis quote.
Technology can help create or disorient. It can re-create things and inform us about reality, thus helping us see the options and decisions before us, or it can, on the contrary, create virtual simulations, illusions, fantasies, and fictions.
— Pope Francis Homily, 2002

technology

I think that is the solution that was once proposed in the United States, of switching them to other parishes. That is stupid, because the priest continues to carry the problem in his backpack. The only answer to the problem is zero tolerance. - Pope Francis quote.
I think that is the solution that was once proposed in the United States, of switching them to other parishes. That is stupid, because the priest continues to carry the problem in his backpack. The only answer to the problem is zero tolerance.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010
Yes, hypothetically, western Catholicism could revise the theme of celibacy... . But for the moment, I am in favor of maintaining celibacy, with the pros and the cons it has, because we have ten centuries of more good experiences than bad ones. - Pope Francis quote.
Yes, hypothetically, western Catholicism could revise the theme of celibacy... . But for the moment, I am in favor of maintaining celibacy, with the pros and the cons it has, because we have ten centuries of more good experiences than bad ones.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Catholicism

We speak of morals because it is easier. Furthermore — and this is bad taste — we deal with themes related to matrimonial morals and those tied to the sixth commandment because they seem more colorful. Thus we give a very sad image of the Church. - Pope Francis quote.
We speak of morals because it is easier. Furthermore — and this is bad taste — we deal with themes related to matrimonial morals and those tied to the sixth commandment because they seem more colorful. Thus we give a very sad image of the Church.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 15 December 2011

Catholic church morals

He doesn't promise riches or power, but what He does promise is His care and the greatest security you can find: refuge in the name of God. He promises His intimacy, the warmth of the Father, [and] His embrace, full of tenderness and understanding. - Pope Francis quote.
He doesn't promise riches or power, but what He does promise is His care and the greatest security you can find: refuge in the name of God. He promises His intimacy, the warmth of the Father, [and] His embrace, full of tenderness and understanding.
— Pope Francis Homily, 30 January 2005

God

I confess to you: when I meditate on [xenophobia in Argentina], I pardon [the xenophobes], but I cry. I cry out of impotence. What is happening to my people, who once had their arms open to receive so many immigrants? What is happening to my people? - Pope Francis quote.
I confess to you: when I meditate on [xenophobia in Argentina], I pardon [the xenophobes], but I cry. I cry out of impotence. What is happening to my people, who once had their arms open to receive so many immigrants? What is happening to my people?
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 September 2008
The old person is the transmitter of history, he who brings us memories, the memory of our people, of our country, of our family, culture, and religion. He has lived a long time, and even if he's done so as a fool, he deserves serious consideration. - Pope Francis quote.
The old person is the transmitter of history, he who brings us memories, the memory of our people, of our country, of our family, culture, and religion. He has lived a long time, and even if he's done so as a fool, he deserves serious consideration.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

age

Each time life puts the option in front of us to serve inclusively or to take advantage by excluding [others], between washing another's feet or washing our hands of someone else's troubles, let the image of Jesus and the joy of service come to mind. - Pope Francis quote.
Each time life puts the option in front of us to serve inclusively or to take advantage by excluding [others], between washing another's feet or washing our hands of someone else's troubles, let the image of Jesus and the joy of service come to mind.
— Pope Francis Homily, 7 August 2005

service helping others

Cultural production, especially what's on TV, [is characterized by] programs in which degradation and sexual frivolity, the devaluation of the family, the promotion of vices artificially made up as virtues, and the exaltation of violence are constant. - Pope Francis quote.
Cultural production, especially what's on TV, [is characterized by] programs in which degradation and sexual frivolity, the devaluation of the family, the promotion of vices artificially made up as virtues, and the exaltation of violence are constant.
— Pope Francis Letter for the Youth, 1 October 2005

media

We must stop hiding the pain of our losses and take responsibility for our crimes, our apathy, and our lies, because it is only through reparative reconciliation that we will be resuscitated, and, in the process, that we will lose fear of our own selves. - Pope Francis quote.
We must stop hiding the pain of our losses and take responsibility for our crimes, our apathy, and our lies, because it is only through reparative reconciliation that we will be resuscitated, and, in the process, that we will lose fear of our own selves.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 May 2003

helping others apathy

People are historical subjects, which is to say, citizens and members of the pueblo [nation]. The state and society should generate the social conditions that promote and act as guardian of their rights and allow them to be builders of their own destiny. - Pope Francis quote.
People are historical subjects, which is to say, citizens and members of the pueblo [nation]. The state and society should generate the social conditions that promote and act as guardian of their rights and allow them to be builders of their own destiny.
— Pope Francis Speech, Archdiocesan Social Pastoral Conference, 16 October 2010

government

Is it true that Argentinians don't want to dialogue? I wouldn't put it that way. Rather, I think we've become victims of attitudes that don't permit us to dialogue: arrogance, the inability to listen, an exasperation with language ... and so many others. - Pope Francis quote.
Is it true that Argentinians don't want to dialogue? I wouldn't put it that way. Rather, I think we've become victims of attitudes that don't permit us to dialogue: arrogance, the inability to listen, an exasperation with language ... and so many others.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Argentina

It's obvious that we can't opt out of being part of the "information society" in which we live, but what we can do is take our time to analyze, to lay out possibilities, to visualize consequences, to exchange points of view, and to listen to other voices. - Pope Francis quote.
It's obvious that we can't opt out of being part of the "information society" in which we live, but what we can do is take our time to analyze, to lay out possibilities, to visualize consequences, to exchange points of view, and to listen to other voices.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

society

To be faithful, to be creative, we need to be able to change. To change! And why must I change? So that I can adapt to the situations in which I must proclaim the Gospel. To stay close to God, we need to know how to set out; we must not be afraid to set out. - Pope Francis quote.
To be faithful, to be creative, we need to be able to change. To change! And why must I change? So that I can adapt to the situations in which I must proclaim the Gospel. To stay close to God, we need to know how to set out; we must not be afraid to set out.
— Pope Francis The Church of Mercy

evangelism

It's not always easy to listen. Sometimes it's more comfortable to play deaf, put on the Walkman and not listen to anyone. So easily we replace listening with email, messaging, and "chat," and in this way we deprive ourselves... of faces, looks, and embraces. - Pope Francis quote.
It's not always easy to listen. Sometimes it's more comfortable to play deaf, put on the Walkman and not listen to anyone. So easily we replace listening with email, messaging, and "chat," and in this way we deprive ourselves... of faces, looks, and embraces.
— Pope Francis El Verdadero Poder Es el Servicio, 2007

listening

From Bangkok to São Paulo, from Buenos Aires to Los Angeles or Sydney, many young people are listening to the same music; kids see the same cartoons; families dress, eat, and have fun in the same stores. Nonetheless, this globalization is an ambiguous reality. - Pope Francis quote.
From Bangkok to São Paulo, from Buenos Aires to Los Angeles or Sydney, many young people are listening to the same music; kids see the same cartoons; families dress, eat, and have fun in the same stores. Nonetheless, this globalization is an ambiguous reality.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

globalization

The idea that celibacy produces pedophiles can be forgotten. If a priest is a pedophile, he is so before he becomes a priest. But when this happens you must never look away. You cannot be in a position of power and use it to destroy the life of another person. - Pope Francis quote.
The idea that celibacy produces pedophiles can be forgotten. If a priest is a pedophile, he is so before he becomes a priest. But when this happens you must never look away. You cannot be in a position of power and use it to destroy the life of another person.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010
Argentina has arrived at a moment of critical decision making ... the decision to continue as a country, to learn from its painful experiences of the past and initiate a new path, or to drown in misery, chaos, the loss of values, and decomposition as a society. - Pope Francis quote.
Argentina has arrived at a moment of critical decision making ... the decision to continue as a country, to learn from its painful experiences of the past and initiate a new path, or to drown in misery, chaos, the loss of values, and decomposition as a society.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

Argentina

The massive migratory movements of our world and the reality of religious diversity, especially that which originates in the East, present a delicate challenge to evangelization with respect to the encounter between different cultures and interreligious dialogue. - Pope Francis quote.
The massive migratory movements of our world and the reality of religious diversity, especially that which originates in the East, present a delicate challenge to evangelization with respect to the encounter between different cultures and interreligious dialogue.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 September 2004

evangelism diversity

If I'm not mistaken, Sigmund Freud said that in every idealisation there's an aggression. Depicting the Pope as a sort of Superman, a star, is offensive to me. The pope is a man who laughs, cries, sleeps calmly and has friends like everyone else. A normal person. - Pope Francis quote.
If I'm not mistaken, Sigmund Freud said that in every idealisation there's an aggression. Depicting the Pope as a sort of Superman, a star, is offensive to me. The pope is a man who laughs, cries, sleeps calmly and has friends like everyone else. A normal person.
— Pope Francis
Jesus did not preach His own politics: He accompanied others. The conversions He inspired took place precisely because of His willingness to accompany, which makes us all brothers and children and not members of an NGO or proselytes of some multinational company. - Pope Francis quote.
Jesus did not preach His own politics: He accompanied others. The conversions He inspired took place precisely because of His willingness to accompany, which makes us all brothers and children and not members of an NGO or proselytes of some multinational company.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 5 September 2012

Jesus evangelism

And here the first word that I wish to say to you: joy! Do not be men and women of sadness: a Christian can never be sad! Never give way to discouragement! Ours is not a joy born of having many possessions, but of having encountered a Person: Jesus, in our midst. - Pope Francis quote.
And here the first word that I wish to say to you: joy! Do not be men and women of sadness: a Christian can never be sad! Never give way to discouragement! Ours is not a joy born of having many possessions, but of having encountered a Person: Jesus, in our midst.
— Pope Francis The Church of Mercy

Christianity Jesus joy

The modern city is relativist: everything is valid, and it's possible for us to give in to the temptation [of believing] that in order not to discriminate, in order to include everyone, that we have to occasionally "relativize" the truth. But this is not the case. - Pope Francis quote.
The modern city is relativist: everything is valid, and it's possible for us to give in to the temptation [of believing] that in order not to discriminate, in order to include everyone, that we have to occasionally "relativize" the truth. But this is not the case.
— Pope Francis Speech, First Regional Conference of Urban Parishes, 25 August 2011
The promotion and strengthening of work for adults will make it possible to avoid [the phenomenon of] child labor. It's very difficult for a child to go out and look for work if his parents have meaningful work that allows them to provide for their family's needs. - Pope Francis quote.
The promotion and strengthening of work for adults will make it possible to avoid [the phenomenon of] child labor. It's very difficult for a child to go out and look for work if his parents have meaningful work that allows them to provide for their family's needs.
— Pope Francis Letter for the Youth, 1 October 2005
No to slavery... No to children, men, and women [treated as] discarded material. It's our flesh that's at stake here! It's our flesh that's being sold! The same flesh I have, that you have, is on sale! And you're not going to be moved for the flesh of your brother?! - Pope Francis quote.
No to slavery... No to children, men, and women [treated as] discarded material. It's our flesh that's at stake here! It's our flesh that's being sold! The same flesh I have, that you have, is on sale! And you're not going to be moved for the flesh of your brother?!
— Pope Francis Homily, 4 September 2009
I see it as a body that gives service, a body that helps me and serves me. ... The Roman Curia has its downsides, but I think that too much emphasis is placed on its negative aspects and not enough on the holiness of the numerous consecrated and laypeople who work in it. - Pope Francis quote.
I see it as a body that gives service, a body that helps me and serves me. ... The Roman Curia has its downsides, but I think that too much emphasis is placed on its negative aspects and not enough on the holiness of the numerous consecrated and laypeople who work in it.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012

Catholic church

If our schools are not a space where another humanity is being created, where another wisdom is taking root, where another society is being created, where hope and transcendence have a place, then we are losing out on making a unique contribution to this historical moment. - Pope Francis quote.
If our schools are not a space where another humanity is being created, where another wisdom is taking root, where another society is being created, where hope and transcendence have a place, then we are losing out on making a unique contribution to this historical moment.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

school

We are like the Apostles in the Gospel: often we would prefer to hold on to our own security... We are afraid of God's surprises! He always surprises us! The Lord is like that. Dear brothers and sisters, let us not be closed to the newness that God wants to bring into our lives! - Pope Francis quote.
We are like the Apostles in the Gospel: often we would prefer to hold on to our own security... We are afraid of God's surprises! He always surprises us! The Lord is like that. Dear brothers and sisters, let us not be closed to the newness that God wants to bring into our lives!
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2013

change

We live in the most unequal part of the world, which has grown the most, yet reduced misery the least. The unjust distribution of goods persists, creating a situation of social sin that cries out to heaven and limits the possibilities of a fuller life for so many of our brothers. - Pope Francis quote.
We live in the most unequal part of the world, which has grown the most, yet reduced misery the least. The unjust distribution of goods persists, creating a situation of social sin that cries out to heaven and limits the possibilities of a fuller life for so many of our brothers.
— Pope Francis Address, CELAM conference, 21 May 2007

Argentina

There was a time when [the Church wouldn't] do funerals for suicides, because [the person] didn't keep walking toward the goal; he put an end to the path when he felt like it. But this is a person who couldn't overcome the contradictions. I don't reject him. I leave it in God's hands. - Pope Francis quote.
There was a time when [the Church wouldn't] do funerals for suicides, because [the person] didn't keep walking toward the goal; he put an end to the path when he felt like it. But this is a person who couldn't overcome the contradictions. I don't reject him. I leave it in God's hands.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

Catholicism suicide

A community that stops kneeling before the rich, before success and prestige, and which is capable, instead, of washing the feet of the humble and those in need, will be more aligned with [God's] teaching than the winner-at-any-price ethic that we've learned — badly — in recent times. - Pope Francis quote.
A community that stops kneeling before the rich, before success and prestige, and which is capable, instead, of washing the feet of the humble and those in need, will be more aligned with [God's] teaching than the winner-at-any-price ethic that we've learned — badly — in recent times.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

society capitalism

We are historical people. We live in time and space. Every generation needs the ones before it and owes those who follow. And this, in great measure, is what it means to be a nation: to understand ourselves as continuing the work of other men and women who have already done their part. - Pope Francis quote.
We are historical people. We live in time and space. Every generation needs the ones before it and owes those who follow. And this, in great measure, is what it means to be a nation: to understand ourselves as continuing the work of other men and women who have already done their part.
— Pope Francis Annual Message to Educational Communities, Easter 2002

country

When a man guards his gift and doesn't do his work, he doesn't fulfill his mandate and remains primitive; when he is overly enthusiastic about his work, he forgets his gift and creates a constructivist ethic: he believes everything is the fruit of his own hands and that there is no gift. - Pope Francis quote.
When a man guards his gift and doesn't do his work, he doesn't fulfill his mandate and remains primitive; when he is overly enthusiastic about his work, he forgets his gift and creates a constructivist ethic: he believes everything is the fruit of his own hands and that there is no gift.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

God talent hard work

The Lord has redeemed all of us, all of us, with the Blood of Christ, all of us, not just Catholics. Everyone! 'Father, the atheists?' Even the atheists. Everyone! We must meet one another doing good. 'But I don't believe, Father, I am an atheist!' But do good: we will meet one another there. - Pope Francis quote.
The Lord has redeemed all of us, all of us, with the Blood of Christ, all of us, not just Catholics. Everyone! 'Father, the atheists?' Even the atheists. Everyone! We must meet one another doing good. 'But I don't believe, Father, I am an atheist!' But do good: we will meet one another there.
— Pope Francis

Christianity atheism

Be assured that the Church, for her part, highly esteems your important work... Your work calls for careful preparation, sensitivity, and experience, like so many other professions, but it also demands a particular concern for what is true, good, and beautiful. This is something which we have in common. - Pope Francis quote.
Be assured that the Church, for her part, highly esteems your important work... Your work calls for careful preparation, sensitivity, and experience, like so many other professions, but it also demands a particular concern for what is true, good, and beautiful. This is something which we have in common.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013

journalism

The religious ministry sometimes calls attention to certain points of private or public life because it is the guide of its parishioners. What it does not have the right to do is force a [specific kind of] private life on anyone. If God, in His creation, ran the risk of making us free, who am I to meddle? - Pope Francis quote.
The religious ministry sometimes calls attention to certain points of private or public life because it is the guide of its parishioners. What it does not have the right to do is force a [specific kind of] private life on anyone. If God, in His creation, ran the risk of making us free, who am I to meddle?
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

homosexuality

You have to become indignant against the injustice that not everyone has bread and work. In this world many people look out for themselves. And how curious it is that those who look out for themselves and not for the common good are usually the ones who go around cursing, who curse other people and things. - Pope Francis quote.
You have to become indignant against the injustice that not everyone has bread and work. In this world many people look out for themselves. And how curious it is that those who look out for themselves and not for the common good are usually the ones who go around cursing, who curse other people and things.
— Pope Francis Speech, August 2012

helping others inequality selfishness

In the face of grave forms of social and economic injustice, of political corruption, of ethnic cleansing, of demographic extermination, and destruction of the environment...surges the need for a radical personal and social renewal that is capable of ensuring justice, solidarity, honesty, and transparency. - Pope Francis quote.
In the face of grave forms of social and economic injustice, of political corruption, of ethnic cleansing, of demographic extermination, and destruction of the environment...surges the need for a radical personal and social renewal that is capable of ensuring justice, solidarity, honesty, and transparency.
— Pope Francis Homily, 25 September 2004
Sometimes I ask someone who is making confession if they give alms to beggars. When they tell me, "Yes," I ask, "And do you look in the eyes of the person to whom you are giving alms? Do you touch their hand?" And that's where they start to get tangled up, because many just throw the money and turn their heads. - Pope Francis quote.
Sometimes I ask someone who is making confession if they give alms to beggars. When they tell me, "Yes," I ask, "And do you look in the eyes of the person to whom you are giving alms? Do you touch their hand?" And that's where they start to get tangled up, because many just throw the money and turn their heads.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

charity

I think with great affection and deep gratitude of my venerable predecessor, Benedict XVI, who during these years of his pontificate has enriched and strengthened the Church with his teaching, his goodness, his guidance, his faith, his humility, and his gentleness, which will remain a spiritual heritage for all. - Pope Francis quote.
I think with great affection and deep gratitude of my venerable predecessor, Benedict XVI, who during these years of his pontificate has enriched and strengthened the Church with his teaching, his goodness, his guidance, his faith, his humility, and his gentleness, which will remain a spiritual heritage for all.
— Pope Francis Address to Cardinals, 15 March 2013
In some churches — and I don't know how to remedy this, honestly — there is a fierce competition between bridesmaids and brides. These women aren't observing a religious act; they're just showing off. And this weighs on my conscience; as priest, I am permitting this and I haven't found a way to put a stop to it. - Pope Francis quote.
In some churches — and I don't know how to remedy this, honestly — there is a fierce competition between bridesmaids and brides. These women aren't observing a religious act; they're just showing off. And this weighs on my conscience; as priest, I am permitting this and I haven't found a way to put a stop to it.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

weddings

Old age, they say, is the seat of wisdom. The old ones have the wisdom that they have earned from walking through life, like old Simeon and Anna at the temple, whose wisdom allowed them to recognize Jesus. Let us give with wisdom to the youth: like good wine that improves with age, let us give the youth the wisdom of our lives. - Pope Francis quote.
Old age, they say, is the seat of wisdom. The old ones have the wisdom that they have earned from walking through life, like old Simeon and Anna at the temple, whose wisdom allowed them to recognize Jesus. Let us give with wisdom to the youth: like good wine that improves with age, let us give the youth the wisdom of our lives.
— Pope Francis Address to Cardinals, 15 March 2013

age wisdom

After 52 commuters died when a train crashed into buffers at a railway station in Buenos Aires: This city does not know how to weep. All is fixed with anesthetics... virtually all of them were earning their daily bread. With dignity! Father, let us not get used to the idea that to earn your daily bread you must travel like cattle. - Pope Francis quote.
After 52 commuters died when a train crashed into buffers at a railway station in Buenos Aires: This city does not know how to weep. All is fixed with anesthetics... virtually all of them were earning their daily bread. With dignity! Father, let us not get used to the idea that to earn your daily bread you must travel like cattle.
— Pope Francis Homily, 23 March 2012

Buenos Aires

If one of them comes to me and tells me he got a woman pregnant, I listen ... [but] he must leave the ministry and take responsibility for his child... . Just as the child has a right to have a mother, he also has the right to know his father's face. I commit to arranging the papers in Rome, but [the priest] must leave [the priesthood]. - Pope Francis quote.
If one of them comes to me and tells me he got a woman pregnant, I listen ... [but] he must leave the ministry and take responsibility for his child... . Just as the child has a right to have a mother, he also has the right to know his father's face. I commit to arranging the papers in Rome, but [the priest] must leave [the priesthood].
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

priesthood

Even if the life of a person has been a disaster, even if it is destroyed by vices, drugs, or anything else—God is in this person's life. You can, you must try to seek God in every human life. Although the life of a person is a land full of thorns and weeds, there is always a space in which the good seed can grow. You have to trust God. - Pope Francis quote.
Even if the life of a person has been a disaster, even if it is destroyed by vices, drugs, or anything else—God is in this person's life. You can, you must try to seek God in every human life. Although the life of a person is a land full of thorns and weeds, there is always a space in which the good seed can grow. You have to trust God.
— Pope Francis A Big Heart Open to God: A Conversation with Pope Francis

God faith

The Christian truth is attractive and persuasive because it responds to the deep needs of human existence, convincingly announcing that Christ is the only Savior of the whole person and of all persons. This announcement is as valid today as it was at the beginning of Christianity, when there was a great missionary expansion of the Gospel. - Pope Francis quote.
The Christian truth is attractive and persuasive because it responds to the deep needs of human existence, convincingly announcing that Christ is the only Savior of the whole person and of all persons. This announcement is as valid today as it was at the beginning of Christianity, when there was a great missionary expansion of the Gospel.
— Pope Francis Address to Cardinals, 15 March 2013

Christianity

The question of truth is really a question of memory, deep memory, for it deals with something prior to ourselves and can succeed in uniting us in a way that transcends our petty and limited individual consciousness. It is a question about the origin of all that is, in whose light we can glimpse the goal and thus the meaning of our common path. - Pope Francis quote.
The question of truth is really a question of memory, deep memory, for it deals with something prior to ourselves and can succeed in uniting us in a way that transcends our petty and limited individual consciousness. It is a question about the origin of all that is, in whose light we can glimpse the goal and thus the meaning of our common path.
— Pope Francis Lumen Fidei: Enciclica sulla Fede

brotherhood of man truth

To fight the effects of globalization that led to the closure of many factories and the consequences of misery and unemployment, you have to promote bottom-up economic growth with the creation of small and medium-sized companies. Outside help should not just come in the form of funds but should also reinforce a work culture and a political culture. - Pope Francis quote.
To fight the effects of globalization that led to the closure of many factories and the consequences of misery and unemployment, you have to promote bottom-up economic growth with the creation of small and medium-sized companies. Outside help should not just come in the form of funds but should also reinforce a work culture and a political culture.
— Pope Francis La Stampa, December 2001

globalization

The period of the Conclave was full of meaning, not only for the College of Cardinals, but also for all the faithful. In these days we felt, almost tangibly, the affection and solidarity of the universal Church, as well as the attention of many people who, although they do not share our faith, look to the Church and the Holy See with respect and admiration. - Pope Francis quote.
The period of the Conclave was full of meaning, not only for the College of Cardinals, but also for all the faithful. In these days we felt, almost tangibly, the affection and solidarity of the universal Church, as well as the attention of many people who, although they do not share our faith, look to the Church and the Holy See with respect and admiration.
— Pope Francis Address to Cardinals, 15 March 2013
Only someone who has encountered mercy, who has been caressed by the tenderness of mercy, is happy and comfortable with the Lord. I beg the theologians who are present not to turn me in to the Sant'Uffizio or the Inquisition; however, forcing things a bit, I dare to say that the privileged locus of the encounter is the caress of the mercy of Jesus Christ on my sin. - Pope Francis quote.
Only someone who has encountered mercy, who has been caressed by the tenderness of mercy, is happy and comfortable with the Lord. I beg the theologians who are present not to turn me in to the Sant'Uffizio or the Inquisition; however, forcing things a bit, I dare to say that the privileged locus of the encounter is the caress of the mercy of Jesus Christ on my sin.
— Pope Francis National Catholic Reporter, 3 March 2013

mercy

Jesus on the cross feels the whole weight of the evil, and with the force of God's love he conquers it; he defeats it with his resurrection. This is the good that Jesus does for us on the throne of the cross. Christ's cross, embraced with love, never leads to sadness, but to joy, to the joy of having been saved and of doing a little of what he did on the day of his death. - Pope Francis quote.
Jesus on the cross feels the whole weight of the evil, and with the force of God's love he conquers it; he defeats it with his resurrection. This is the good that Jesus does for us on the throne of the cross. Christ's cross, embraced with love, never leads to sadness, but to joy, to the joy of having been saved and of doing a little of what he did on the day of his death.
— Pope Francis The Church of Mercy

Christianity Jesus

We should commit ourselves to "Eucharistic coherence"; that is, we should be conscious that people cannot receive Holy Communion and at the same time act or speak against the commandments, in particular when abortions, euthanasia, and other serious crimes against life and family are facilitated. This responsibility applies particularly to legislators, governors, and health professionals. - Pope Francis quote.
We should commit ourselves to "Eucharistic coherence"; that is, we should be conscious that people cannot receive Holy Communion and at the same time act or speak against the commandments, in particular when abortions, euthanasia, and other serious crimes against life and family are facilitated. This responsibility applies particularly to legislators, governors, and health professionals.
— Pope Francis Speech, Aparecida Document, 2 October 2007

Catholicism

In Argentina there is clandestine euthanasia. Social services pay up to a certain point; if you pass it, "die, you are very old." Today, elderly people are discarded when, in reality, they are the seat of wisdom of the society. The right to life means allowing people to live and not killing, allowing them to grow, to eat, to be educated, to be healed, and to be permitted to die with dignity. - Pope Francis quote.
In Argentina there is clandestine euthanasia. Social services pay up to a certain point; if you pass it, "die, you are very old." Today, elderly people are discarded when, in reality, they are the seat of wisdom of the society. The right to life means allowing people to live and not killing, allowing them to grow, to eat, to be educated, to be healed, and to be permitted to die with dignity.
— Pope Francis LifeSiteNews.com, 5 October 2007
We have to avoid the spiritual sickness of a self-referential Church. It's true that when we stray from its path, as can happen to any man or woman, accidents can happen. But if the Church stays enclosed within itself, self-referential, it will grow old. And between a Church that accidentally strays off its path and one that is sick because of self-reference, I have no doubt: I prefer the former. - Pope Francis quote.
We have to avoid the spiritual sickness of a self-referential Church. It's true that when we stray from its path, as can happen to any man or woman, accidents can happen. But if the Church stays enclosed within itself, self-referential, it will grow old. And between a Church that accidentally strays off its path and one that is sick because of self-reference, I have no doubt: I prefer the former.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010

church

It's true that I, like my entire family, was a practicing Catholic. But my head wasn't fixed solely on religious matters because I also had political preoccupations, although they didn't move beyond the intellectual plane. I read Nuestra Palabra y Propositos, a publication of the Communist Party, and I loved all the articles, which helped me in my political formation. But I was never a Communist. - Pope Francis quote.
It's true that I, like my entire family, was a practicing Catholic. But my head wasn't fixed solely on religious matters because I also had political preoccupations, although they didn't move beyond the intellectual plane. I read Nuestra Palabra y Propositos, a publication of the Communist Party, and I loved all the articles, which helped me in my political formation. But I was never a Communist.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010
Instead of just being a Church that welcomes and receives, we try to be a Church that comes out of itself and goes to the men and women who do not participate in parish life, do not know much about it and are indifferent toward it. We organize missions in public squares where many people usually gather: we pray, we celebrate Mass, and we offer baptism, which we administer after a brief preparation. - Pope Francis quote.
Instead of just being a Church that welcomes and receives, we try to be a Church that comes out of itself and goes to the men and women who do not participate in parish life, do not know much about it and are indifferent toward it. We organize missions in public squares where many people usually gather: we pray, we celebrate Mass, and we offer baptism, which we administer after a brief preparation.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2013

church

We believe that the steps taken by the justice system in clarifying these events must serve to renew the efforts of all citizens toward reconciliation, and are a call to distance ourselves not only from impunity but from hatred and rancor as well. [Any Catholic who participated did so] on his own responsibility, erring and sinning gravely against God, against mankind, and against his own conscience. - Pope Francis quote.
We believe that the steps taken by the justice system in clarifying these events must serve to renew the efforts of all citizens toward reconciliation, and are a call to distance ourselves not only from impunity but from hatred and rancor as well. [Any Catholic who participated did so] on his own responsibility, erring and sinning gravely against God, against mankind, and against his own conscience.
— Pope Francis Interpress Service, 11 October 2007

Argentina

The role of the mass media has expanded immensely in these years, so much so that they are an essential means of informing the world about the events of contemporary history. I would like, then, to thank you in a special way for the professional coverage which you provided during these days — you really worked, didn't you? — when the eyes of the whole world, and not just those of Catholics, were turned to the Eternal City. - Pope Francis quote.
The role of the mass media has expanded immensely in these years, so much so that they are an essential means of informing the world about the events of contemporary history. I would like, then, to thank you in a special way for the professional coverage which you provided during these days — you really worked, didn't you? — when the eyes of the whole world, and not just those of Catholics, were turned to the Eternal City.
— Pope Francis Vatican press conference, 16 March 2013

media

When I entered seminary, Mama didn't go with me; she didn't want to go. For years, she didn't accept my decision. We weren't fighting. It's just that I would go [visit her at] home, but she wouldn't come to the seminary. She was a religious woman, a practicing Catholic, but she thought that everything had happened too quickly. But I remember seeing her on her knees in front of me at the end of my ordination ceremony, asking for my blessing. - Pope Francis quote.
When I entered seminary, Mama didn't go with me; she didn't want to go. For years, she didn't accept my decision. We weren't fighting. It's just that I would go [visit her at] home, but she wouldn't come to the seminary. She was a religious woman, a practicing Catholic, but she thought that everything had happened too quickly. But I remember seeing her on her knees in front of me at the end of my ordination ceremony, asking for my blessing.
— Pope Francis El Jesuita, 2010
In our ecclesiastical region, there are priests who don't baptize the children of single mothers because they weren't conceived in the sanctity of marriage. These are today's hypocrites: those who clericalize the Church, those who separate the people of God from salvation. And this poor girl who, rather than returning the child to sender, had the courage to carry it into the world, must wander from parish to parish until her child can be baptized! - Pope Francis quote.
In our ecclesiastical region, there are priests who don't baptize the children of single mothers because they weren't conceived in the sanctity of marriage. These are today's hypocrites: those who clericalize the Church, those who separate the people of God from salvation. And this poor girl who, rather than returning the child to sender, had the courage to carry it into the world, must wander from parish to parish until her child can be baptized!
— Pope Francis New York Daily News, 14 March 2013

Catholic church

You [teachers] stand daily before boys and girls who are full of possibilities, desires, fears, and real shortcomings. Children who are demanding, waiting, criticizing, pleading in their own way, [who are] infinitely alone, in need, terrified, [and yet] persistently trusting in you, even if they present a face of indifference, contempt, or rage. They're alert, waiting to see if someone offers them something different... or closes yet another door in their face. - Pope Francis quote.
You [teachers] stand daily before boys and girls who are full of possibilities, desires, fears, and real shortcomings. Children who are demanding, waiting, criticizing, pleading in their own way, [who are] infinitely alone, in need, terrified, [and yet] persistently trusting in you, even if they present a face of indifference, contempt, or rage. They're alert, waiting to see if someone offers them something different... or closes yet another door in their face.
— Pope Francis Homily, Easter 2005

teaching

I must not be scandalized by the fact that the Church is my mother: I must look at its sins and shortcomings as I would look at my mother's sins and shortcomings. And when I think of her, I remember the good and beautiful things she has achieved, more than her weaknesses and defects. A mother defends herself with a heart filled with love before doing so with words. I wonder whether there is any love for the Church in the hearts of those who pay so much attention to the scandals. - Pope Francis quote.
I must not be scandalized by the fact that the Church is my mother: I must look at its sins and shortcomings as I would look at my mother's sins and shortcomings. And when I think of her, I remember the good and beautiful things she has achieved, more than her weaknesses and defects. A mother defends herself with a heart filled with love before doing so with words. I wonder whether there is any love for the Church in the hearts of those who pay so much attention to the scandals.
— Pope Francis America magazine, 13 March 2013

church

Cardinals are not NGO representatives, but servants of the Lord, inspired by the Holy Spirit, which is the one [that] is really able to differentiate charismas, unifying them in the Church. A cardinal must be able to differentiate between charismas and at the same time look toward unity, aware that the creator of difference and unity is the Holy Spirit itself. Cardinals who do not enter this frame of mind, in my view, are not cardinals in the way Benedict XVI would like them to be. - Pope Francis quote.
Cardinals are not NGO representatives, but servants of the Lord, inspired by the Holy Spirit, which is the one [that] is really able to differentiate charismas, unifying them in the Church. A cardinal must be able to differentiate between charismas and at the same time look toward unity, aware that the creator of difference and unity is the Holy Spirit itself. Cardinals who do not enter this frame of mind, in my view, are not cardinals in the way Benedict XVI would like them to be.
— Pope Francis Vatican Insider, 24 February 2012

Catholicism

When I was a seminarian, I was dazzled by a girl I met. Her beauty, her intellect surprised me, and well, I walked around dizzy for a good bit. When I returned to the seminary, I couldn't pray for a whole week because this girl always popped into my head. I had to rethink what I was doing. I was still free because I was a seminarian; I could have gone back home, [but] I reaffirmed my decision, the religious path. It would be abnormal if this type of thing didn't happen. When it does happen, one has to resituate oneself. - Pope Francis quote.
When I was a seminarian, I was dazzled by a girl I met. Her beauty, her intellect surprised me, and well, I walked around dizzy for a good bit. When I returned to the seminary, I couldn't pray for a whole week because this girl always popped into my head. I had to rethink what I was doing. I was still free because I was a seminarian; I could have gone back home, [but] I reaffirmed my decision, the religious path. It would be abnormal if this type of thing didn't happen. When it does happen, one has to resituate oneself.
— Pope Francis Sobre el Cielo y la Tierra, 2010

personal priesthood

If we—all of us—accept the grace of Jesus Christ, he changes our heart and from sinners makes us saints. To become holy we do not need to turn our eyes away and look somewhere else, or have as it were the face on a holy card! No, no, that is not necessary. To become saints only one thing is necessary: to accept the grace that the Father gives us in Jesus Christ. There, this grace changes our heart. We continue to be sinners for we are weak, but with this grace which makes us feel that the Lord is good, that the Lord is merciful, that the Lord waits for us, that the Lord pardons us—this immense grace that changes our heart. - Pope Francis quote.
If we—all of us—accept the grace of Jesus Christ, he changes our heart and from sinners makes us saints. To become holy we do not need to turn our eyes away and look somewhere else, or have as it were the face on a holy card! No, no, that is not necessary. To become saints only one thing is necessary: to accept the grace that the Father gives us in Jesus Christ. There, this grace changes our heart. We continue to be sinners for we are weak, but with this grace which makes us feel that the Lord is good, that the Lord is merciful, that the Lord waits for us, that the Lord pardons us—this immense grace that changes our heart.
— Pope Francis The Church of Mercy

God Christianity

At school they taught us slavery has been abolished, but do you know what? It was a fairy tale! Because in Buenos Aires, slavery has not been abolished; in this city it is still common in various forms; in this city workers are exploited in clandestine workshops and, if they are immigrants, they prevent them from leaving; and in this city there are children who have been living on the streets for years... . In this city women are kidnapped and are submitted to the use and abuse of their bodies, destroying their dignity. There are men here who abuse and make money from human flesh... Dogs are treated better than these slaves of ours! - Pope Francis quote.
At school they taught us slavery has been abolished, but do you know what? It was a fairy tale! Because in Buenos Aires, slavery has not been abolished; in this city it is still common in various forms; in this city workers are exploited in clandestine workshops and, if they are immigrants, they prevent them from leaving; and in this city there are children who have been living on the streets for years... . In this city women are kidnapped and are submitted to the use and abuse of their bodies, destroying their dignity. There are men here who abuse and make money from human flesh... Dogs are treated better than these slaves of ours!
— Pope Francis Homily, 23 September 2011

Buenos Aires