But the pope also encouraged activists to help rebuild society’s “fabric of relationships” by working towards unity rather than division.

“Allow me to say, we are saints,” the pope said. ”But then, by our actions, we become sinners. But, fundamentally, we are saints.”

Experts at the Vatican on Tuesday considered the ethics of “booster shot” distribution in wealthy countries when many in other parts of the world have yet to receive the first dose.

Let’s be honest: We are all cafeteria Catholics. The real question is how we avoid a food fight in the cafeteria.

In the preface to a new book, Pope Francis writes how Vatican II has been central to his personal spirituality, and discusses how the church must continue to implement its insights.

Christians must be on guard and avoid the temptation of thinking themselves better than others, an attitude that risks turning the church into a place of “separation and not communion,” Pope Francis said.