Pope Francis participated in a new documentary titled “The Pope: Answers,” where he engaged in a conversation with 10 young adults, ages 20 to 25, who were a mix of Catholics, Christians, atheists, agnostics, and one Muslim. The group of young people quizzed the Pope on a variety of topics, including sex, masturbation, pornography, abortion, disillusionment with the church, the church’s sexual abuse crisis, racism, immigration, and the LGBTQ community.
During the discussion on sex and pornography, the Pope expressed his views that sex is a beautiful thing given by God and that pornography diminishes true sexual expression. He emphasized that “to express oneself sexually is something rich,” and that anything that diminishes a true sexual expression also diminishes a person as well. He added that sex has its own dynamics and exists for a reason, which is to express love.
When asked about young people using dating apps like Tinder to meet potential partners, the Pope said that it is normal and that young people have an eagerness to meet each other, which is a good thing. He also revealed that he did not have a cellphone but said that he thinks it’s normal for young people to use technology to communicate and form relationships.
In response to questions about the Catholic Church’s teaching on sex, the Pope admitted that the Church’s catechesis on sex is still in its early stages and that Christians had not always had a mature religious instruction on the subject. He said that the Church’s teaching on sex is still in diapers and that it needs to mature.
Overall, the documentary provided a platform for the Pope to have an open and frank discussion with young people on a range of issues that are relevant to them. The Pope’s views on sex, relationships, and technology reflect his efforts to connect with young people and to address issues that are important to them.
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