Among the dangers of a “sterile” form of celibacy are bitterness and gossip, Pope Francis told a group of Italian priests and bishops on July 26.
When a priest disagrees with his bishop or when bishops disagree with each other, they must air their differences – even loudly – but never talk behind each other’s backs, Pope Francis said.
“Say it to his face,” the Pope recommended.
“You’re a man, so if you have something against your bishop, go and tell him. There may be consequences, but pick up your cross, be a man!”
Not for the first time, the Pope admitted that he, too, has been tempted to gossip.
“I’ve wondered if this isn’t the consequence of a celibate life lived as sterility, not fruitfulness,” he said.
The key to a fruitful life comes from “being faithful to God [which is] seeking him, opening oneself to him in prayer, remembering that he is the faithful one”, and “opening oneself to others” with empathy, respect and patience.
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