Benedict XVI was 'great Pope,' says Pope Francis
October 27, 2014
Pope Francis referred to Pope Benedict XVI as a “great Pope” as he unveiled a bust of his predecessor during an October 27 visit to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.
Pope Francis assessed Benedict as “great for the power and penetration of his intellect, great for his significant contribution to theology, great for his love for the Church and of human beings, great for his virtue and piety.”
In an address to the Pontifical Academic of Sciences, which was meeting to discuss evolution in nature, Pope Francis said that there is no contradiction between science and faith. The “big bang” theory, he observed, “does not contradict the divine act of creating, but rather requires it.”
Scientists, the Pope continued, should search for evidence of how mankind can cooperate in the work of the Creator. He cautioned that when men attempt to form their own plans for creation, ignoring God’s plan, they become destructive. “And this is the grave sin against God the Creator,” he said.
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Further information:
- Benedict was 'great' pope, says Francis (ANSA)
- Francis in the Pontifical Academy of Sciences emphasises the responsibility of humanity in creation (VIS)
- Pope Francis unveils bust of Benedict XVI at Science Academy (Vatican Radio)
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