"Pope Francis the Chemist Should Give Congress a Science Lesson"

"When Pope Francis speaks to Congress, he'll likely provide moral — and scientific — instruction".

"Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum has called on Pope Francis to “leave science to the scientists” in an effort to avoid supporting the pope’s message on protecting the environment and fighting climate change. With the pope’s upcoming encyclical, or letter, on the subject set to be released in the next two weeks, it’s unlikely that this will be the last time we hear a prominent Republican use this line. One big problem: Pope Francis is no scientific illiterate. He has a degree in chemistry and worked as a chemist.

Perhaps when the pope addresses a joint meeting of Congress later this year, he will not just provide some moral instruction, but also clear up a few scientific matters, too.

Pope Francis defies the liberal-conservative divide that shapes Congress, and given his straightforward, pull-no-punches approach, he will likely challenge both Democrats and Republicans to reject the “throwaway culture” that he has repeatedly denounced during his papacy. In particular, the pope is likely to challenge Republicans to accept the reality of climate change and to support measures that would protect the environment. Meanwhile, he’s likely to challenge Democrats on abortion, as he treats the issue as integral to social justice and the defense of human rights."

Robert Christian reports for TIME June 4, 2015.

SEE ALSO:

"Rick Santorum Tries To Explain Why He Can Weigh In On Climate Change But Pope Shouldn't" (Huffington Post)

"Santorum: Climate Change About 'Political Science'" (The Hill)

"Santorum: Pope Francis Should Stay Out of Climate Change Debate" (The Hill)

"Santorum: I’m More Qualified Than Pope Francis To Talk About Climate Change Because I’m A Politician" (Climate Progress)

"Faith Groups Seek Climate Deal Boost From Pope, Pilgrimage" (Reuters)

"Fox Host Hits Santorum On Pope And Climate Change: You're Not A Scientist " (Talking Points Memo)

"Is the Pope A Communist?" (BBC News)