‘Joking About God is Fine, But Be Respectful’, Says Pope Francis
Pope Francis says joking about God is fine, as long as it’s not derogatory, during special audience with 100 international comedians.
In a meeting with around 100 comedians, actors, and writers from around the world, including notable American celebrities like Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Conan O’Brien, Chris Rock and Stephen Colbert, Pope Francis made a surprising declaration: “Can we also laugh at God? Of course, it’s not blasphemy, we can, just as we play and joke with the people we love.
“Humour does not offend, humiliate, or put people down according to their flaws. While he held up “Jewish wisdom and literary tradition” as an example of good comedy.
Reuters reports that the pontiff made the remarks after he came under fire, and apologised for the use of an insulting word towards gay people.
“What I am saying now is not heresy: when you manage to draw knowing smiles from the lips of even one spectator, you also make God smile,” Francis said.
Pope Francis, 87, deviated from his prepared remarks during a 30-minute meeting, injecting humor with a playful gesture and a comment that some might interpret as sexist.
Referencing Sarah, the wife of Abraham in the Old Testament, he described her as “curious like women” who might spy on her husband and later scold him.
Following his speech, the Pope mingled with attendees, sharing jokes, receiving gifts – including a bottle of Italian liqueur – and even taking a selfie with Italian comedians Pio and Amedeo.
