2) All atheists go to heaven?
During a homily in Rome on May 22, Francis said that God redeems everyone – not just Christians, but atheists, as well.
“We must meet one another doing good,” the pope said. ‘But I don’t believe, Father, I am an atheist!’ But do good: we will meet one another there.”
So, was the pope saying that people can go to heaven, even if they don’t believe in God?
Probably not, say church experts.
Catholicism has long held that salvation is open to everyone – but with a really big caveat. If you know about the church and don’t become a member, the door to heaven is likely closed, a Catholic spokesman later clarified.
Many American atheists say they appreciated the olive branch from the pope, however unclear his remarks may have been.