Pope Francis described domestic violence as “satanic” during a December 19 media event, in which he interacted with several people chosen to recognize those living on the margins of society.

The Pope lamented “the great number of women who are beaten, abused at home, even by their husbands.” He spoke out against “a culture of indifference where we try to distance ourselves from the real problems, the suffering caused by homelessness, the lack of jobs.”

The Pontiff also acknowledged the suffering caused by the Covid lockdown, which has made face-to-face contact more difficult. “We need this contact,” he said, adding something essential is missing in relationships conducted exclusively by phone and social media.