Pope Expresses Gratitude to Russians, Praises “Great Mother Russia!” – Sparks International Controversy

"Pope Francis’ recent comments praising the historical legacy of the Russian Empire have ignited

controversy, particularly among Ukrainians. Pope Francis, addressing a young group of Russian Catholics via live stream in St. Petersburg, seemed to beg them, “Don’t forget your heritage. You are the descendants of great Russia: the great Russia of saints rulers, the great Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, that empire – educated, great culture and great humanity. Never give up on this heritage. You are descendants of the great Mother Russia. Step forward with it. And thank you – thank you for your way of being, for your way of being Russian.” MS