In a time when major overpopulation is a concern and the problems that come with it are a priority for many, Pope Benedict XVI has different priorities in mind.

In late March, on the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome that established the European Economic Community, Benedict declared that the low birth rate among Europeans might indicate "dangerous individualism," according to a recent Associated Press article. Benedict expressed concern that the European continent may actually be losing faith in its own future.

"One must unfortunately note that Europe is going down a road which could lead it to take its leave from history," Benedict said.

The pope is concerned about both Europe's and Catholicism's future, but he has his priorities dangerously mixed up.

Asking church members to up their baby production certainly will help solve this problem — but it won't help solve the world's problems.

With overpopulation contributing to problems such as poverty, hunger and global warming, it seems the best solution for society at large is not to bring more babies into the world.

The AP recently published a story about an infant found in a garbage bag on a back porch in Brooklyn. The baby girl died of asphyxiation and hypothermia.

There are many similar cases of parents simply discarding children they don't want. Many children in impoverished countries — and even in rich countries like our own — are starving or being neglected.

We need to set up a society that can raise kids morally and be able to sufficiently support them.

The pope's concern for the future of Catholicism and Europe is legitimate, but there are certainly more pressing matters that he should make a priority.

The world might benefit from a strong and active Catholic church — but it certainly doesn't need any more people.