Bishop condemns Trump’s remarks against Pope Leo XIV

Belagavi: Bishop Derek Fernandes strongly condemned the alleged disparaging remarks made by the US President Donald Trump against Pope Leo XIV — terming them deeply offensive — morally unacceptable and hurtful to the sentiments of millions of Catholics worldwide.In a press release issued on Tuesday, the bishop defended the Pope's stance against war, stating that his calls for peace, reconciliation and dialogue among nations are firmly rooted in truth, justice and the teachings of the Gospel. "The Holy Father's condemnation of destructive war is grounded in the enduring values of the Gospel. The Pope is absolutely right," Bishop Fernandes said.He emphasised that Pope's appeal for peace is not driven by political considerations, but stems from a sacred duty entrusted to him by Christ. Citing Gospel teachings, the bishop noted that believers are called to be peacemakers, and therefore the Pope's message urging humanity to turn away from violence is both timely and necessary.Bishop Fernandes further asserted that any form of disrespect towards the Pope must be unequivocally condemned. Addressing global concerns, the bishop criticised what he described as the contradiction in advocating nuclear armament for some nations while denying it to others. Reiterating the Church's position, he called for universal nuclear disarmament. Describing the remarks attributed to Trump as irresponsible and indicative of a loss of moral direction, Bishop Fernandes demanded an unconditional apology from the President. "Public figures bear a grave responsibility for their words. When those words offend faith, dignity and the cause of peace, they must be corrected with humility and sincerity," he stated.