Many of us, I suspect, have heard snippets of an interview that Pope Francis did for a series of Jesuit publications, including America, where, among other things, he suggested that we might be wise to not always emphasize the moral issues around abortion, gay marriage and contraception in our conversations. That’s, of course, the phrase that most caught the attention of the media, but the whole interview is remarkable for its candor and includes a whole range of thoughts that help give us a sense of how Francis intends to colour his papacy. Here are a few of his thoughts, in his own words:

Recently I received an e-mail from a person who died many months ago.

VATICAN CITY - After Pope Francis entrusted two Vatican academies to study the problem of human trafficking, a group of women religious asked the pope to raise greater awareness in the church about the issue by establishing a worldwide day of prayer and fasting.

Interfaith dialogue doesn’t start with an exchange of creeds or comparison of theologies. It begins with friendship.

VATICAN CITY - Saints aren't superheroes, they are regular people who just never left God's side after encountering Him and His love, Pope Francis said on the feast of All Saints.

VATICAN CITY - Bishops around the world are being asked to take a realistic look at the situation of families under their care and at how effective pastoral and educational programs have been at promoting Church teaching on sexuality, marriage and family life.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C) Nov. 10 (2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 7, 9-14; Psalm 17; 2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5; Luke 20:27-38)

Suffering, persecution and chaotic situations often give birth to new theological insights. The afterlife was not part of the belief system of Israel for the greater part of its early history. If one were faithful to the commandments and law of God blessings would follow in this life. After death a person lived on through their descendants and the memory of the community. Fidelity to the covenant led to prosperity, happiness and long life.

“Home is where we start from.” T.S. Eliot wrote that and it describes an experience that can be felt both as a freedom and a heartache. I cite my own case:

VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis will create his first cardinals during a consistory Feb. 22, the feast of the Chair of St. Peter.

VATICAN CITY - Trials and doubts are part of everyone's faith journey, "even mine," Pope Francis said, but Christians know they can get through the hard times with help from God, other Christians and those in heaven.