Pope Francis sends message to married couples,asks them to say, ‘Please, thanks, sorry'

Recognizing that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated some family issues, Pope Francis has urged married couples to seek help and to remember three crucial words in their marriage: "Please, thanks, and sorry."

On Sunday, a Roman Catholic feast day honouring Jesus' family, Francis released a letter to married couples. It happened midway through Francis' year-long celebration of the family, which will culminate in a large gathering in Rome in June.

Lockdowns and quarantines, Francis wrote, had pushed families to spend more time together. However, he emphasised that such forced togetherness challenged the tolerance of both parents and siblings at times, and in some circumstances resulted in problems.

"Pre-existing issues were exacerbated, resulting in disputes that were practically unpleasant in certain circumstances." "Many have even gone through a relationship split," Francis added.

He expressed his support for those families and reminded parents that the end of a marriage is especially difficult on children, who turn to their parents for stability, love, trust, and strength.

"The dissolution of a marriage produces enormous suffering," Francis remarked, "since many hopes are broken, and misunderstandings can rise to conflicts and injuries that are difficult to repair."

"Children are forced to endure the agony of witnessing their parents split up."

He encouraged parents to seek assistance in resolving problems, especially through prayer. "Keep in mind that forgiveness cures all wounds," he added.

Pope repeated a phrase he's used many times while meeting with families and married couples, citing the three most crucial words in a marriage: "Please, thank you, and sorry."

He wrote, "Don't let the day close without making peace after every quarrel."