Listening to you, many of the key ideas of the pontificate of Francis are reflected. Where does this symbiosis come from?
I will tell you with great joy that these challenges posed by Pope Francis have not surprised us, we feel "like fish in water." The Pope has a marked pastoral character and a preference for the poor. As Rector Major, I remind everyone of the priority we give to these elements of our identity.
There is the sensation that this Pope is much loved outside, but within the Church there are groups, people or sensibilities who do not understand or go directly against Pope Francis. Do we need to help the Pope?
As a Salesian I must say what Don Bosco always said, "Long live the Pope." The Pope is the Pastor of the Church and a man like everyone else. He needs to feel that he is being supported, that we are with him, that we are walking together.
There are those who presume to declare the Pope a heretic...
It's stupid. An absolute stupidity, as it is to believe that one is more enlightened than he... And, within the Church, we are many that feel in total communion with the Pope ... I add another element. I know that Pope Francis is aware that especially the religious life is in profound communion with the Pope and with Pope Francis.
How do you see the future of the Church?
If you talk to me about the Church, I answer you on the basis of what I know ... Without a doubt, the Church is full of life, full of consecrated men and women, pastors, priests and lay people who are committed all over the world. We are living a spring time ... I would even dare to say: we are again living a beautiful spring, and it will not be the last one, eh? ... Just talk about the Church, and think of four or five people. It can be criticized, we make mistakes, but every time what I see is the Church that is there to serve, to be with people, with those who believe, with those who do not believe, and with anyone who wants to talk or needs help. It's what I honestly think.
Fuente: Religión Digital
