If you are more interested in scoring points than in understanding what the Pope was talking about, that’s your choice.
The usual dictionary, such as Webster’s, is wholly unsuitable for deciphering the discourse of someone who is using terms of art in some specialized field. Many’s the time I’ve seen a theological discussion utterly bollixed up by someone who insists that every word must mean exactly what it says in Webster’s.
That’s why there are MEDICAL dictionaries, and THEOLOGICAL dictionaries, as well as Webster’s.
Oh, put your shirt back on, Art. This was no interview for any specialized medical, theological, etc., audience and unless I missed it you’re not an interpreter for the Pope.
No word fits what Jesus did better than the word proselyte. Did some feel insulted? Yes. Jesus and his disciples were active preachers who sought converts, they proselytized!
I think “solemn nonsense” is what you’re trying to defend.