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“Catholics Support Pope Francis’ Liberal Stance on Contraceptives, Homosexuality”
by Herals Sun   
September 23rd, 2013
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Catholics around the world are reacting mostly positively to Pope Francis’ recent remarks that the church has become too focused on “small-minded rules” on hot-button issues like homosexuality, abortion and contraceptives.

At Masses over the weekend, the faithful reflected on how they believe Francis’ comments would impact the Catholic Church.

The pope said on Thursday that pastors should focus less on divisive social issues and should emphasise compassion over condemnation.

In the United States, churchgoer Marilyn White, 73, welcomed the pope’s words.

“I think he sent a good message,” said White, from New York. “I think he’s opening a way for people to communicate, dialogue and maybe come back to the church.”

New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan said that Francis “speaks like Jesus” and is a “breath of fresh air.”

In Florida, devout Catholic Frank Recio said he was grateful that the pope is trying to shift the tone of the church.

“I’m a devout Catholic, always have been. I think the Catholic Church had gotten out of touch with the way the world was evolving,” said Recio, 69, who’s retired from a career in the technology industry.

Recio said he was glad the pope spoke about abortion, though he personally believes in a woman’s right to choose.

Boston’s Evelyn Martinez, 26, said she agrees with Francis that compassion should be one of the church’s main priorities.

“I don’t believe that someone’s sexuality should keep them away from any religion,” said Martinez, 26, a graduate student at Emerson College who attended Mass at St. Patrick’s Church on Saturday night.

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