Pope Francis had no problem recognizing his trip to Chile was deeply marked by controversy.
The pope said the exact aim of his visit was promoting dialogue. Issues, he said, are to be discussed. The key is how they're discussed.
POPE FRANCIS
“There are always conflicts, also at home, you have to deal with them, but dealing with them badly is even worse. Don't sweep conflicts under the bed (rug). Whatever comes to light is discussed, it's resolved through dialogue. Think about the little conflicts that you surely have at home. Don't hide them, discuss them. Find the right moment, and conflicts are resolved that way, through dialogue.”
The controversy during the trip to Chile arose when Pope Francis defended a bishop accused of covering up abuse by a priest who was later convicted. The pope said until there's evidence, he cannot act accordingly.
The Holy Father affectionately recalled his visit to the prison and the Little Prince shelter for abandoned children.
Pope Francis reminded of his message in support of the indigenous and denunciation of corruption in Peru, a country whose ex-presidents have created severe scandals. The pope said corruption isn't limited to Latin America.
POPE FRANCIS
“I don't know if you've heard talk of corruption here. I don't know. Not only in those places. It's also here. It's more dangerous than the flu. It gets inside and ruins the heart. Corruption ruins hearts. Please, say no to corruption.”
At the conclusion, Pope Francis once again called for peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He did it in Peru, on the Sunday when riots ravaged the country, claiming at least six lives.
