Pope Francis told a reporter on Wednesday it was an “honor” to be the subject of attacks from American religious conservatives and their Catholic allies.
The pope was speaking with French journalist Nicholas Seneze, the author of “How America Wants to Change Popes,” when he responded to his American critics while heading to Mozambique for a three-day tour of sub-Saharan Africa.
His stances on climate change, immigration, homosexuality and theology have garnered heavy criticism from politicians and conservative Catholics and commentators. Some critics have demanded his resignation.
“It’s an honor that the Americans attack me,” the pontiff told Seneze.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni later issued a statement to clarify the pope’s remarks.
“The pope was speaking in an informal context in which he wanted to say that he always considers criticism an honor, particularly when it comes from authoritative thinkers, in this case, those in an important nation,” he said. – READ MORE