Pope Francis denounces 'pathology of indifference' and 'epidemic of animosity' toward outsiders

Pope Francis on Saturday spoke out against polarization, nationalism, and demonization of minorities in a ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica in which he ordained 17 new cardinals, including 13 who are younger than 80 and therefore eligible to be his successor.

"We see, for example, how quickly those among us with the status of a stranger, an immigrant, or a refugee become a threat, take on the status of an enemy," he said, adding, "In God's heart there are no enemies. God has only sons and daughters. We are the ones who raise walls, build barriers, and label people."

"How many wounds grow deeper due to this epidemic of animosity and violence, which leaves its mark on the flesh of many of the defenseless, because their voice is weak and silenced by this pathology of indifference," Francis continued. The 79-year-old pontiff's comments were interpreted as a thinly veiled reference to worldwide currents of nationalism and specifically President-elect Donald Trump.

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