The Pontiff clearly addressed the tension with the Church in Germany regarding the blessing of homosexual couples. “The Holy See has made it clear that we do not agree with the formalized blessing”, reiterated the Pope, underlining however that ecclesial unity must not remain hostage to issues linked to sexuality. According to Francis, there are “much bigger and more important” challenges, such as justice, equality and freedom. Echoing this were the words of Cardinal Prevost, who recalled how the Church is an open house: «When the priest or the Pope bless at the end of a celebration, that blessing is for everyone».
Migrants: «Treated worse than animals»
On the migration issue, the Pope used very harsh words against the dehumanization of flows: “Migrants are human beings and must be treated in a humanitarian manner, no worse than animals.” While recognizing the right of a State to “establish rules for its borders” and to manage entries in an orderly manner, Francis warned governments: human dignity remains inviolable, regardless of the numerical limits that a country decides to impose.
The appeal for Iran and the Strait of Hormuz
Ample space was dedicated to the geopolitical crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. The Pope defined the situation as “chaotic and critical for the world economy”, lamenting the uncertainty of the negotiations between the United States and Iran. “We don’t know who created this situation, but there is a whole population in Iran of innocent people who are suffering,” he said, movingly quoting a letter he received from Iranian families who lost their children in the first days of the attacks. “We need to think with greater openness”, concluded the Pope, urging all parties to make an extraordinary effort towards dialogue, the only tool capable of stopping the trail of death that strikes those who are not guilty.