Pope Francis has criticized Catholics for leading a "double life", accusing many of being hypocrites who attend Mass and participate in church activities while engaging in unethical behavior, such as paying low wages to workers.
The Pope made these comments during his daily morning Mass at the Santa Mara, his Vatican residence, where he denounced the practice of some Catholics who prioritize wealth over faith. He stated, "to be a Catholic like that, it’s better to be an atheist."
According to the Pope, some Catholics are guilty of "laundering money or being cheap with their salary payments". He cited the example of a failing company where workers were not receiving their paychecks, while the Catholic owner was on vacation.
The Pope warned against "excessive confidence" that God will forgive every sin, and emphasized the importance of living a genuine faith. He concluded his sermon by advising to "take advantage of the word of the Lord and remember that on this the Lord is very severe. Scandal destroys."
The recovered account cited reporting by Tuko.
