Pope Francis Tells Nuns Not to Be ‘Old maids’

The World

Pope Francis held an audience with 800 female Catholic leaders from around the world, calling on them to engage in a “fertile” chastity, that would “generate spiritual children in the church.”

Pope Francis held an audience with 800 female Catholic leaders from around the world, calling on them to engage in a “fertile” chastity, that would “generate spiritual children in the church.”

The World’s Marco Werman speaks with theologian Lavinia Byrne about the significance of the Pope’s comments.

Invest in independent global news

The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!