ROME – Pope Francis faced criticism on Tuesday after allegedly using a derogatory term to describe gay priests during a meeting with clerics at Rome’s Salesian Pontifical University. This incident comes just two weeks after the Vatican issued an apology for reports that the pontiff had used the same slur in a previous meeting with bishops. The Vatican did not explicitly mention the use of the offensive word but stated that the pope warned against the influence of ideologies in the Church.
The 87-year-old pontiff, known for his progressive views on LGBTQ+ issues, reiterated his stance on welcoming gay men in the Church while also expressing caution about their entry into the priesthood. Despite his previous statements in support of same-sex civil unions and outreach to the LGBTQ+ community, Francis has aligned with a 2005 Vatican ruling that prohibits homosexual men from becoming priests. This has sparked debate among theologians about the pope’s position on the matter.
Reports from major Italian media outlets shed light on the pope’s comments during the meeting, where he reportedly made disparaging remarks toward gay priests. The Vatican has not responded to requests for comment on the alleged use of offensive language by the pontiff. Some theologians argue that the focus should be on Francis’ belief that homosexual individuals should not be ordained, rather than the specific language he used.
In the past, Francis has been praised for his more informal communication style compared to previous popes. However, his recent remarks have raised concerns about his views on homosexuality within the Church. The incident has sparked discussions around the world about the intersection of LGBTQ+ rights and religious doctrine, with many calling for a more inclusive approach from the Catholic Church.
Despite the controversy surrounding his comments, Pope Francis remains a popular figure among Catholics and continues to advocate for social justice and compassion. His words and actions carry significant weight within the Church and the global community, shaping conversations on important issues like LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion in religious institutions. As the pontiff faces criticism for his remarks, it remains to be seen how he will address the backlash and work towards promoting greater acceptance and understanding within the Church.