pope francis Archives

Pope Francis Commends Large Families in Indonesia On September 4, during his visit to Indonesia, Pope Francis praised the country for its embrace of large families. His visit is part of a 12-day journey across Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. Praising Family Values The Pope highlighted Indonesia's strong family values, expressing admiration for families with many children. He noted that such family structures strengthen communities and reflect deep cultural roots. Concern About Societal Shifts Pope also questioned the growing trend in other countries where people seem to favor pets over children. He voiced his concerns about declining birth rates, suggesting that societies should prioritize nurturing future generations over companionship with animals. This visit marks a significant moment in Pope's broader message on the importance of family life and its role in society.