Slovakia: Francis Badly Embarrasses Nuncio, Bishop

Prior to stating as reported above, Francis said to the priests and Bishops of Slovakia, today:

“Beloved, do not be afraid to form people to a mature and free relationship with God. This relationship is important. Perhaps this will give us the impression of not being able to control everything, of losing strength and authority; but the Church of Christ does not want to dominate consciences and occupy spaces, she wants to be a "fountain" of hope in people's lives. It is a risk. It is a challenge. I say this especially to Pastors: you exercise your ministry in a country in which many things have changed rapidly and many democratic processes have been set in motion, but freedom is still fragile. Above all, it is fragile in the hearts and minds of people.
That is why I encourage you to make them grow up free from a rigid religiosity. Get out of that, and let them grow up free! May no one feel crushed. May each one discover the freedom of the Gospel, gradually entering into a relationship with God, with the confidence of one who knows that, before Him, he can bring his own story and wounds without fear, and without pretense, without worrying about defending his own image. Being able to say, "I am a sinner," but saying it sincerely, not beating our chests and then continuing to believe we are righteous. Freedom. May the proclamation of the Gospel be liberating, never oppressive. And may the Church be a sign of freedom and welcome!”