While urging believers to practice responsible parenting, Pope Francis said good Roman Catholics do not feel the need to breed like rabbits. Surrounded by street children who have been abandoned by their parents due to poverty, Francis stood firm against the use of artificial birth control while preaching about how new life is part of the sacrament of marriage. Yet, he advised families to have not more than three children, because that is the number sociologists deem fit.

On his way back to Rome from the Philippines, Francis was asked by journalists what he had to say to families that have more children than they can actually afford, especially since the Church prohibits the use of artificial contraception.

“Some people think that - excuse my expression here - that in order to be good Catholics we have to be like rabbits. No. Parenthood is about being responsible. This is clear,” he responded.

The pope also said he was aware of several ways that are approved by the Catholic Church and those that could apparently make sure couples give birth to only as many children as they want.

He cited the example of one woman who had seven children by caesarean section and was pregnant with her eight at the time he met her. Her pregnancy, the pontiff noted, was irresponsible.

“She said, 'I trust in God.' But God gave us the means to be responsible,” the Pope said.

Photo Credits: Community Table