Homosexuals who join the priesthood must remain in the closet, according to new guidance from the Holy See
The Vatican has given the green light for gay men to become priests, on the condition that they remain celibate and refrain from promoting “Gay culture” According to guidance published by the Italian Bishops’ Conference (CIE) on Thursday.
The document was approved by the Identification and Deportation Commission in November and published on Thursday, authorized by the Vatican. It will remain in effect for a trial period of three years.
states that “Persons with homosexual tendencies” Those wishing to join the clergy must commit to celibacy, as do their straight counterparts as well.
However, the document lives on in the church “Those who practice homosexuality, display deep-rooted homosexual tendencies, or support so-called gay culture cannot be accepted.”
“The persons mentioned actually find themselves in a situation that seriously hinders healthy relationships with men and women.” states.
While the new rules provide a path to the priesthood for gay men, they do not depart from the language of a 2016 order by Pope Francis, which bans men who have sex with gay men. “Practicing homosexuality, [and] “Exhibiting deep-rooted homosexual tendencies” To become priests.
Francis has made a series of somewhat contradictory statements about homosexuality since he became pope in 2013. When asked that year whether he supported gay men joining the priesthood, he responded “Who am I to judge?” However, in 2018 he recommended that gay priests should remain outside the Church, saying “It is better for them to leave the service or consecrated life than to live a double life.”
Last year, the Pope apologized after complaining in an interview that there were too many “Frosyagini” (Italian for “faggot”) It happens in religious institutes.
While the Pope has never contradicted the Catechism of the Catholic Church which states this “Homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered.” He has made several concessions to the LGBT community, including a December 2023 ruling allowing priests to bless unmarried and same-sex couples.
You can share this story on social media:
