Holy Father says there is nothing wrong with criticising him

Many people, religious leaders included, have a problem

He made this known while speaking with Italian bishops while opening their General Assembly, Catholic Herald reports.

The Holy Father urged the bishops to "speak openly" as he asked them to tell him "all the words, your concerns, criticisms - it is not a sin to criticise the Pope here, yes, not a sin - and inspirations that you carry in your hearts."

He went on to share his three "worries" which he said are the reduction/merging of dioceses, the decline in vocations in Italy and financial scandals.

According to Pope Francis, he is really worried about the "hemorrhaging" of vocations and religious life in Italy which he blamed on factors like demographic changes, scandals in the Church and a "dictatorship of money," which he notes is preventing young people from the priesthood.

He added that "God only knows" how many seminaries and monasteries will be closed as a result of this decline.

"These are my concerns. They are points for reflection, " the Pope concluded.

ALSO READ: Pope Francis talks about quitting his position

Message to critics

Pope Francis' speech follows Pastor Enoch A. Enoch's message to his 'haters.'

On Saturday, May 12, 2018, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) addressed the recent backlash over a recent tithing controversy.

Speaking at the church's Northern Regional Camp in Jos, Plateau State, the popular cleric noted that anyone who attacks him is indirectly attacking members of RCCG worldwide and Christians, by extension.

In his words, "You are aware that some people spend their time attacking me, particularly on the internet. Those attacking me are actually attacking you, but be rest assured, they would soon be sent out of this country. The Bible said, when you strike a Shepherd, the sheep shall scatter.

"They say Pastor Adeboye only talks about tithes, is it only what I preach? Don't I talk about holiness, healing, prosperity, salvation? Don't let anybody deceive you because if you meet Jesus on the Last Day, you don't say I stopped paying tithes because somebody said it is wrong," the cleric, who is fondly known as Daddy G.O added.