Pope Francis Says Europe Sick With Loneliness

ROME, November 25 (Sputnik) – Europe is sick with loneliness which affects the elderly, the poor and immigrants, Pope Francis said during a visit to Strasbourg Tuesday.

"One of the most widespread illnesses I can see in Europe these days is loneliness. Loneliness particularly affects old people, who are abandoned to their own fate and youths, who have no clear points of reference and opportunities in their future; it [loneliness] is also seen in many poor people living in our cities and in the unstable immigrants, who came here [to Europe] looking for a better life," Pope Francis said addressing the European Parliament.

Pope Francis also mentioned the growing distrust of the public with European institutions rooted in the deep economic crisis.

"The great ideals which once inspired Europe seem to have lost their attractiveness in favor of the bureaucratic formalities of its institutions," he said.

Pope Francis added that Europe is aging and giving the impression of a "grandmother" no longer "fertile" and "dynamic."

The Pope concluded his speech urging members of the European Parliament to work together in building a Europe, which is focused not on the economy but on human personality and values.

Pope Francis' visit to the French city of Strasbourg on Tuesday is considered to be the shortest in history, lasting only four hours.