One of the most overlooked elements of Papa Francesco's speech to the Congress was his excoriation of the world's armaments peddlers, and of people who make them wealthy by making war, something that is rather front and center these days given the events in Paris a week ago. Recently, in a homily meant to kick off the Christmas season, he sounded that particular trumpet even more loudly.

"What shall remain? Ruins, thousands of children without education, so many innocent victims and lots of money in the pockets of arms dealers. Jesus once said: 'You can not serve two masters: Either God or riches.' War is the right choice for him, who would serve wealth: 'Let us build weapons, so that the economy will right itself somewhat, and let us go forward in pursuit of our interests.' There is an ugly word the Lord spoke: 'Cursed!' Because He said: 'Blessed are the peacemakers!'"

So, there you have it. The pope has joined the war on Christmas. Has anyone told O'Reilly? He may stroke out.

Charles P. Pierce Charles P Pierce is the author of four books, most recently Idiot America, and has been a working journalist since 1976.

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