Pope Francis on Sunday criticized travelers who had gone on vacation to escape the COVID-19 lockdowns, saying they cared more about “pleasure” than the suffering of others.
During a video speech from the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, Francis said he had read reports of people boarding a flight to vacation elsewhere during the pandemic.
“They didn’t think about those who stayed at home, about the economic hardship of many of the people hard hit by the lockdown, about the sick people – just going on vacation and having fun,” said Francis.
The 84-year-old Pontifex said their lack of compassion for others had made him ‘really sad’.
“We don’t know what 2021 will set aside for us, but what we can all do together is put a little more effort into taking care of each other. There is a temptation to look after our own interests alone, ”he said.
Francis’ comments came after his traditional Angelus blessing, which is usually given from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square but has been moved inside to prevent crowds from gathering in the Vatican.
With pole wires