Pope Francis: Wine is a gift from God!

POPE Francis has proclaimed that wine ‘is a gift from God’, and a ‘true source of joy’ for drinkers.

Speaking at a private audience with Italian winemakers in the Vatican, he joked: ‘This seems like a drunk pope.’

He told the group: ‘Wine, land, agricultural skills and entrepreneurialism are gifts from God – the creator has entrusted them to us because, with our sensitivity and honesty, we make them a true source of joy.’

But he was quick to tell winemakers that they needed to reflect on the ‘moral and ethical responsibilities’ stemming from their work. He told them that they needed to treat their workers fairly, ensure a clean environment, and encourage healthy drinking habits.

The event was organised by the Bishop of Verona, Domenico Pompili, before a major wine trade fair that takes place in northern Italy every year.

The bishop said: ‘Saint Paul said it – a glass is good to cheer you up, but in moderation.’

The pontiff has made several proclamations that have raised eyebrows among more conservative members of the Church. Last week, he told attendees of his General Audience in the Vatican that sexual pleasure was a gift from God that should be cherished. He was quick to say that this gift was ‘undermined by pornography,’ telling the public: ‘Satisfaction without a relationship can generate forms of addiction. We must defend love. Winning against the battle of lust can be a lifelong undertaking.’

Earlier this month, Francis defended a landmark decision approving blessings for same-sex couples, suggesting that those in the Catholic Church who have resisted it have jumped to ‘ugly conclusions’ because they do not understand it.

‘A glass is good to cheer you up’