In new interview, Pope speaks of need for integrity in fight against poverty
November 06, 2015
Pope Francis said that a Church leader cannot preach against poverty if he “lives like a Pharaoh,” in an interview, published by a Dutch newspaper that is run by homeless people.
The Pope’s most recent interview—the first interview granted by a Pontiff to a Dutch newspaper—appeared in Straatnieuws, a modest daily that is produced and sold by homeless people. The interview also appeared in 112 other allied publications operated by the homeless.
When asked whether he had a special message for the homeless, the Pope replied: “Two things come to mind. Jesus came to the world homeless, and made Himself poor. Then, the Church wishes to embrace all and to say that it is a right to have a roof over your head.
Regarding efforts by the Church to address poverty, the Pope said that there are two temptations. The first is to speak about poverty while living in luxury. The second, he said, is “to make agreements with governments.” While at times the Church can form alliances with governments, the Pope cautioned against the danger of corruption. He recalled at in Argentina, a retiring government official had estimated that only 35% of the funds allotted for poverty programs actually reaches the poor.
When asked whether the Church could sell off artistic treasures to raise funds for the poor, the Pope said: “They are not the treasures of the Church, they are treasures of humanity.” Speaking of Michelangelo’s Pieta as an example, he said: “It is kept in a church but it belongs to humanity.” He did note, however, that the papal almoner regularly sells off or raffles gifts that were given to the Pope, using the proceeds to help the poor.
When questioned as to whether it is realistic to hope for an end to poverty, Pope Francis answered: “I would like a world without the poor. We must fight for this. But I am a believer and I know that sin is always within us.”
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Further information:
- Pope Francis to Straatnieuws: truth and witness from Church (Vatican Radio)
- The Pope is interviewed by the newspaper Straatnieuws: “The Church teaches that everyone has the right to work, a home and the earth” (VIS)
- Pope gives interview to Dutch homeless people’s newspaper (Dutchnews)
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Posted by: Randal Mandock -
Nov. 07, 2015 6:04 AM ET USA
I wonder how far Pope Francis is willing to go in ending "agreements with governments"? One needs only to consider Catholic Charities USA, Catholic universities and colleges, and other Catholic organizations infested with tentacles from local, state, and federal governments. I further wonder how the USCCB, Catholic university presidents, et al. are receiving this particular guidance from the Pope? I for one am pleasantly surprised and in full support of this initiative.
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Posted by: claire5327 -
Nov. 07, 2015 1:54 AM ET USA
Some porverty were casued by unforeseen events, such as governemnt’s take over of personal properties. Some by personal sluthfulness, others by gambling, ill mangement of income, or bad investments! But no poverty is worse than spiritual poverty! It is the cause of all poverties! Spirutual Poverty covers all 7 Deadly Sins! Mortals never bring Blessing from God, but ways of Satan! We should all be concerned about Spiritual Weealth First, that will ends Poverty of many kinds! Truth saves!
