Pope Francis Urges Nuns to Embrace Joy and Reject Gossip

The pontiff called on nuns to avoid 'vinegar faces,' abstain from gossip, and adopt a loving, friendly demeanor.

During a meeting with the Union of St. Catherine of Siena of the Missionaries of the School, Pope Francis urged nuns to embody joy and affability in their daily lives.
The Pope criticized the 'vinegar face' demeanor he has observed in some nuns, emphasizing that such attitudes hinder efforts to attract others to the faith.
He warned against gossip, calling it a 'poison' that harms communities and describing the effort to avoid it as 'heroic,' especially for women.
Francis advised the sisters to speak with everyone except the devil, cautioning against jealousy and negativity that undermine communal harmony.
The pontiff, known for his blunt and colloquial style, has faced past criticism for controversial remarks, including derogatory language towards LGBTQ+ individuals, though he has apologized for any offense caused.