Pope Francis Says Separation May Be ‘Morally Necessary’ for Married Couples to Protect Weaker Spouses and Their Children

The leader of the Catholic Church says separation may be "morally necessary" for married couples.

At his weekly general audience address in St. Peter's Square on June 24, 2015 Pope Francis said that the Church needs to work on ways to help those is vulnerable situations, especially the children.  Said Pope Francis, "For those who enter into so-called irregular situations, we must reflect on how best to help and accompany them in their lives. Let us ask the Lord for a strong faith to see with his eyes the reality of family life, and for a deep love to approach all families with his merciful heart."

No additional comments were made about how the Church would specifically support the "separation," and it remains to be seen how the Pope's comments are interpreted.

His comments come one week after after the Catholic Church released a document calling marriage a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman.