ROME - At his general audience delivered to thousands in Saint Peter’s Square this week, Pope Francis highlighted the gender gap, claiming that more must be done to allow equal recognition of men and women throughout the world.

 During his speech, the pontiff challenged the concept of “gender theory,” stating that the removal of male and female identities is not the answer in ending gender imbalance.

 “Removing the differences between men and women is the problem, not the solution,” said Francis. “The difference is not for opposition or subordination, but for communion.”

 The Pope went on to add that the voices of men and women alike, must be heard in church but also in society, and reflected on the way in which Jesus treated members of the two sexes.

 “It is necessary, in fact, that the woman is not only listened to, but that her voice has a real weight, an authority recognised in society and in the Church,” said the pontiff. “We have not yet understood in depth what things the feminine genius can give us. Perhaps to see things with different eyes that complements the thoughts of men.”

 Meanwhile on Thursday, Francis dedicated mass at the Vatican to former Pope, Benedict XVI who is celebrating his 88^th birthday. In a surprise move, Benedict stepped down in February 2013, becoming the first pontiff since Gregory XII in 1415, to abdicate from the role.