The Pope compares the EU to a dictatorship over attempts to ban Christmas

In an extensive exchange with reporters, Francis also called for caution in “interpreting” a compelling report on child sexual abuse by the French Catholic clergy, saying the “historical situation” should be considered in context.

A groundbreaking investigation overseen by an independent commission in October confirmed widespread sexual abuse of minors by priests in France from the 1950s to 2020.

“When we conduct this kind of study, we have to pay attention to the interpretation we make,” he said.

“The abuse 100 years ago, 70 years ago was brutality. But the way it was experienced is not the same as it is today, ”he said.

“For example, in the case of abuse in the church, it was a relationship to cover it up – a relationship that unfortunately still exists in a large number of families today.”

He added that the “historical situation” should be interpreted according to the criteria of the time.
The pope, who expressed his “shame” after the report was released, revealed that he had not read it himself but would discuss it with French bishops when they visit him later this month.

Francis also said he was ready to travel to Moscow to meet with the head of the Russian Orthodox Church. This would be the Pope’s first trip to Russia.

The Pope has met with Patriarch Kirill before – in 2016, they had a historic meeting on neutral ground in Cuba. This was the first meeting of the leaders of the two largest Christian churches since Christianity split into the western and eastern branches in the 11th century – an event known as the Great Schism.

“I am ready to go to Moscow for a dialogue with my brother,” the pope said, adding that the meeting with Kirill was on a “horizon not far away”.

Both sides have stated that they are ready to strive for unity, but they are still far apart theologically and on what role the pope would play in the eventually reunited Church.

“We’re brothers and we talk straight. We don’t dance the minuet, “said Frančišek.