We must provide guidance on the various problems that face the world of health care today, from specific illnesses to technological discoveries, from political decisions to medical practice.

It's a very difficult and delicate theme that requires prudence.

We are dealing with human beings, and human beings always need something more than technically proper care. They need humanity. They need heartfelt concern.

For example, there are many universities and many countries where you cannot become an obstetrician if you have not assisted at and performed a certain number of abortions.

By appointing their own bishops hastily and illegally, they [the Patriotic Catholic Association] tried to impose their own selection on the Vatican. This shows disregard for the spirit of the negotiation and disrupts mutual trust.

And especially the newer bishops. Everybody knows they were appointed by the Holy Father.