France Francis calls for "healthy secularism"
Pope Francis has called for "healthy secularism" during a visit to the French Mediterranean island of Corsica. Christian and secular culture should not be set against each other, said the head of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics in the island's capital Ajaccio. Francis called for a secularity - the separation of church and state - that is dynamic and adaptable. The constant cooperation between civil and spiritual authorities serves the good of the community.
15.12.2024, 20:39
SDA
"Such a healthy secularity guarantees that politics can act without instrumentalizing religion and that religion can live freely without being burdened by politics dictated by interests," said the Pontiff. France sees itself as a country with a strict separation of state and religion. Its self-image as a secular country is deeply rooted in society.
During the one-day visit, Francis also celebrated a mass with several thousand believers. On the streets of Ajaccio, Francis, who turns 88 on Tuesday, was celebrated by the faithful and onlookers. Many sang songs or asked for blessings. At the end, the pontiff met French President Emmanuel Macron.
It is the first time that a pope has traveled to Corsica. The vast majority of the approximately 350,000 inhabitants of the island profess the Catholic faith. This is Francis' last trip abroad this year. He is due to return to the Vatican in the evening.
