He is calling out the self-destructive behavior.

Pope Francis recently addressed the tensions with conservative Catholic bishops in the United States, characterizing their stance as “suicidal” during a preview of his upcoming interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes.” Host Norah O’Donnell queried Francis about the opposition from some U.S. bishops to his efforts to reevaluate certain teachings and traditions within the Church.

In response, Francis characterized conservatism as a reluctance to move beyond entrenched positions, contrasting it with a more open-minded approach that considers tradition while avoiding dogmatic rigidity. He highlighted the importance of acknowledging past situations while remaining receptive to evolving contexts.

The pontiff’s comments come amid actions taken against vocal critics of his papacy, such as Cardinal Raymond Burke and Bishop Joseph Strickland, indicating a firm stance against dissent within the Church hierarchy.

Another topic addressed in the interview preview was the controversy surrounding the Vatican’s guidance on blessing couples in irregular situations, including same-sex couples. The guidance drew criticism from bishops worldwide, prompting the Vatican to clarify its stance. Francis reiterated that the intention was not to bless the union itself but to offer blessings to the individuals involved, emphasizing inclusivity while upholding the Church’s teachings on marriage.

Regarding the interview’s broader themes, Francis commented on global issues such as the wars in Israel and Gaza, the crisis in Ukraine, and migration, particularly the situation at the U.S. southern border. He advocated for a humane approach to immigration, acknowledging the complexities involved and condemning efforts to disrupt charitable efforts, such as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s actions against the nonprofit Annunciation House in El Paso.

Francis’ remarks underscore his commitment to dialogue, inclusivity, and addressing contemporary challenges facing both the Church and society at large. The interview with “60 Minutes” marks a significant moment in papal communication, offering insights into Francis’ perspectives on critical issues impacting the world today.

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