ROME (WKRC) - Pope Francis is criticizing couples who are choosing pets over parenthood.

The pope spoke to a general audience on the topic of parenthood, particularly fatherhood, at the Vatican Wednesday, discussing the importance of men taking responsibility in caring for and raising children.

"We have so many children without fathers and the challenges of this in society today," said Pope Francis.

Also in that sermon, he also said making the decision to not have children is a type of "selfishness" and encouraged couples to not be afraid of becoming parents.

"Many couples do not have children because they do not want to, or they only have one and not more. But they have domestic animals – two dogs, two cats," he said, adding that not taking part in parenthood can damage people's humanity.

He says couples that can't conceive naturally should consider adoption, even if it's difficult.

The comments are similar to ones Pope Francis made in 2014, saying those who chose to have pets over children will feel the "bitterness of loneliness" when they are older.