Pope Francis has criticized certain conservatives within the US Catholic Church. The Pope's remarks were made during a private meeting with Portuguese Jesuits. In the meeting, a Jesuit said he faced criticism from Catholics about Francis' papacy and modern Jesuits during his sabbatical in the US. The Pope acknowledged his point, saying there was “a very strong, organized, reactionary attitude” in the "backward" US church. Acknowledging the divisions within the church, Francis highlighted the clash between progressive and conservative factions. This was all the more apparent on issues like abortion and same-sex marriage. "I want to remind these people that backwardness is useless, and they must understand that there’s a correct evolution in the understanding of questions of faith and morals" said Pope Francis. The statement reflects Francis' ongoing engagement with criticism from US conservatives.