Pope Supports Expression, Cautions Against Insulting Religions

The pope, who has condemned the attack on Charlie Hebdo, voiced his support for freedom of expression but cautioned that insulting people’s religious beliefs may lead to violent consequences.

Pope Francis has offered his reflection on the Charlie Hebdo massacre in France.

While he supports the freedom of expression, he say that there are limits to provocation without a response, especially when one’s faith is being insulted.

The topic of Charlie Hebdo was broached during a flight from Sri Lanka to the Philippines when a reporter asked the pope about religious freedom versus the freedom to express.

The papal leader responded that they are “both fundamental human rights" and extolled the right to speak one’s mind freely and “for the common good.”

That said, he also cautions that people have their limits when provoked.

For example, if his aide were to insult his mother, “he can expect a punch.”

Faith is another area where there are limits to expression.

He note: "You can't provok