Don’t judge Pope Francis just based on sound bites

Dear Editor, It seems on the face of it that Pope Francis has a habit of ‘putting his foot in it’.

His comments last week that society without children is “sad and grey” reminded me of his recent remarks that married couples who opt not to have children are “selfish”.

Yes, the Pope should have chosen his words a little wiser but I get the distinct impression what he does say is often taken out of context and distorted as a result.

Given the sound bite era we now live in, people would be much better off if they informed themselves of the full story first before jumping to conclusions.

I would urge the public, when Pope Francis speaks ‘controversially’, to go to the original text which is easily accessed online and have a read. At least that way you can make up your own mind.

Your etc.,
James Downey,
Killester,  Dublin 5.