Pope Francis says Catholics should practice "responsible parenthood" and not breed "like rabbits"

Pope Francis is grabbing the attention of many followers with his latest stance on parenthood and birth control.

While traveling from the Philippines to Rome with reporters, the religious leader made a statement inferring that Catholics may have a moral responsibility to limit the number of their children.

According to The National Catholic Reporter, Francis shared the story of a woman he recently met who had given birth to seven children via Cesareans section and was expecting another child.

He asked the unidentified woman, "Does she want to leave the seven orphans?"

"This is to tempt God," he added. "That is an irresponsibility." Catholics, the pope argued, should speak of "responsible parenthood."

So how does one follow this philosophy? It's simple according to Francis. Each person must have a healthy dialogue with his or her's pastor and seek "how to do that responsible parenting."

"God gives you methods to be responsible," he continued. "Some think that—excuse the word—that in order to be good Catholics we have to be like rabbits. No."

Pope Francis' latest statement comes just a few days after confirming his visits to Washington D.C., New York City and Philadelphia later this year.

The pontiff is confirmed to travel to the East Coast in September for the World Meeting of Families. He is set to say mass and conduct a prayer vigil during the families meeting. He will also visit either a children's hospital or a juvenile prison, an archbishop told NBC News.

Time permitting, Francis may also conduct mass in New York City. Madison Square Garden is one of the venues being considered according to event organizers.