Pope Francis Praises Indonesia's Large Families, Criticizes Pet Trend
In a recent speech in Jakarta, Pope Francis commended Indonesians for their commitment to large families, contrasting it with a trend in other countries where people are opting for pets over children. The pontiff highlighted the importance of family values and encouraged other nations to follow Indonesia's example.
The pope's remarks echo his previous comments on the demographic challenges faced by countries like Italy and Europe, where declining birth rates are leading to empty homes and a lack of children. While Indonesia still maintains a higher birth rate compared to Western nations, there has been a gradual decline in recent years.
Interestingly, the issue of family size and child-rearing practices has also entered the political sphere in the United States, with comments from public figures like JD Vance sparking controversy. Vance, the running mate of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, faced backlash for referring to some Democrats as "childless cat ladies."
Overall, Pope Francis's message serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing family and children in society. By valuing and investing in the next generation, countries can secure a brighter future for themselves and uphold traditional family values.