The Pope seems to have expressed opinions about the way certain state officials in the US have used the name of Jesus to justify acts of war and violence, pointing out that Jesus is an inappropriate promoter of such acts.

And isn’t that very right? Jesus’ work was against repression, aggression, and violence. He spoke about peace and about loving our fellow human beings.

Religion is all too often used in the name of war and repression. Whatever God we choose to believe in, we should not use Him to justify violence or selfish power.

And even if much abuse has been done in the name of Christ throughout history, it is good to hear these words from a dignified representative such as the Pope.