VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis says it is "sad" when bishops and priests are "attached to money" and to advancing their careers, in his first public comments following the latest leaked revelations of greedy Vatican prelates resisting his efforts to reform Holy See finances and administration.
With sad eyes, Francis made the impromptu remarks during his homily Friday, apparently inspired by revelations in two new books of leaked documents and conversations.
Francis said: "Even in the church there are these people, who, instead of serving, of thinking of others. ... use the church . They are the career-climbers, those attached to money."
Looking somber, he added: "How many priests, bishops we have seen like this. It's sad to say it, no?"
Pope: It's sad to see priests, bishops 'attached to money'
Pope Francis sits during his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. AP/Alessandra Tarantino