Thoroughly Convincing Analysis of MuchCriticised Speech
In more than one quarter the Pope's famous speech to Spanish refugees has been interpreted as a defence of Fascism and as an interference on the part of the Church in a political struggle in favour of one side.
The speech has now been analysed from the point of view of these accusations in a French review with the following results: 1. The word " Communism " is not once mentioned. The Pope speaks only of " absurd and disastrous ideologies" and of "subversive forces."
2. It is evident that the Pope has Cornmunism in mind. But it is equally evident that, without actually naming them, he has also in mind " Nazism," as when he says: "ln those places where the Church is condemned . . . There where, through insidious or violent conduct, by fictitious and insincere distinctions between the Catholic religion and a political religion . . . "
3. The Pope is speaking to Spaniaeds. It is natural that he should refer to the actual situation in Spain, but it was not only of Spain that he was talking when he said: "In so many countries, as well as in Spain . . . "
4. The Pope denounces all war : " War is always, even in the least sad of circumstances, so terrible and inhuman a thing 5. The Pope does not approve all that the " rebels " do in Spain: " Too easily ardour and difficulties of defence render conduct excessive and not entirely justifiable."
6. The Pope is not preaching a " holy war " in Spain. On the contrary he approves of "all those who, with a pure intention and sincere aims, have tried to intervene in the name of humanity."
7. The Pope does not take sides. He blesses "those who defend the rights and the honour of God. He loves and prays for all others."