Southland Catholics React To War Of Words Between Pope, Donald Trump
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Catholics and others in Southern California were speaking out Thursday amid comments made Thursday by Pope Francis about Donald Trump.
The Pope, according to the Associated Press, said Trump is "not Christian" if he intends to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexican border.
"So when he said, 'a true Christian builds bridges and doesn't build walls,' I think that was very, very strong. We feel that it was a very strong statement coming from a very big, important, moral authority," said Polo Morales, the political director for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles Action Fund.
"These are not just political talking points. They are actually real lives that we're dealing with. It's not just an opinion. It's really a recognition of life," Morales said.
Others weighed in.
"Because I'm a Catholic, I really believe what the Pope says," said one woman, while another said: "It's almost from the mouth of God."
Many agree with the Pope: they don't want barriers or walls built like Trump is proposing.
"Do you know what they go through to cross the border? People die of starvation. They want to make a good life for their families," said Marylin Paguio, a downtown LA resident. "I think it should
be open."
But others say the Pope shouldn't get involved in the political arena.
"I don't think that the Pope should judge Donald Trump's faith," said one man.