Pope Discusses Game Plan for Trump Meeting

Pope Francis says he'll seek common ground, won't preach at president
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted May 13, 2017 2:55 PM CDT
Pope Says He'll Seek Common Ground With Trump, Won't Preach
Pope Francis addresses journalists during the traditional press conference on his flight back to Rome, following a two-day visit at Fatima, Portugal, Saturday, May 13, 2017.   (Tiziana Fabi)

Pope Francis says he won't try to convince President Trump to soften his policies on immigration and the environment when they meet this month, but wants instead to find common ground and work for peace, the AP reports. Francis said proselytizing isn't his style—in politics or religion. Speaking to reporters while traveling home Saturday from a trip to Portugal, Francis said he would say what he thinks sincerely to Trump and listen respectfully to what Trump has to say. "I never make a judgment about a person without hearing him out," the pope said.

Speculation has swirled about what Trump and Francis will discuss during their May 24 audience, given Francis has already said anyone who wants to build walls to keep out migrants is "not Christian." Trump responded by saying it was "disgraceful" that the pope would question his faith. Francis said that in talks, he always tries to find "doors that are at least a little bit open" where common ground can be found, particularly in peace-building. Asked specifically if he would try to soften Trump's policies, Francis said: "That is a political calculation that I don't allow myself to make. Also in the religious sphere: I don't proselytize." (More Pope Francis stories.)

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