Pope Francis has described children as “a gift” vital to the wellbeing of a happy society in his latest weekly audience.

Following on from earlier audiences dealing with the responsibilities of mothers and fathers respectively, the Pontiff turned his attention to the importance of children, both within the family and to the wider world.

“Children are the joy of family and society,” the Pontiff stressed. “They are not a problem of reproductive biology, or one of many ways to realise oneself in life. Let alone their parent’s possession. Children are a gift. Do you understand? Children are a gift!

“Each is unique and each is unrepeatable; and yet unmistakably tied to his or her roots. Being a son or daughter, according to God’s plan, means carrying within the memory and the hope of a love that has realised itself in lighting up another original and new human being. And for parents every child is different, is an individual.”

Criticising negative attitudes shown to larger families, and even to the idea of having children, the Pontiff said such perspectives are indicative of “a depressed society”.

“Just think of the many societies we know here in Europe.  They are depressed societies because they don’t want children, they don’t have children.  The birth rate doesn’t even reach one percent, why?” Everyone, the Pope suggested “should think about that and answer it personally”.

“If a generous family of children is viewed as if it were a burden, there is something wrong,” the Pope continued, adding that “having more children cannot be automatically viewed as an irresponsible choice.” Rather, he insisted, “the choice to not have children is selfish. Life rejuvenates and acquires energy when it multiplies: It is enriched, not impoverished!”

On a personal note, the Pope told his audience, “Let me tell you how beautiful it is to pass among you and see the dad’s and moms who lift up their children for a blessing, it is an almost divine action!”