Pope Francis has come under fire after using a homophobic slur during a closed-door meeting with priests at the Pontifical Salesian University.
WITHand according to La Repubblica, during this meeting, the pontiff used the word “frociaggine”, which is an extremely offensive term to describe homosexual orientation.
Those present at the event note that the Pope expressed an opinion on the need to stop candidates with “homosexual inclinations” in seminaries, even if there are “very good people” among them.
At the same time, he noted the need to accompany gays who feel called to the priesthood, but urged them to avoid enrolling in the seminary. In addition, the Pope hinted at the existence of a “gay lobby” in the Vatican.
The press service of the Holy See stated that during the meeting the Pope spoke about the “danger of ideologies in the church” and the need to receive and accompany people with homosexual orientation to the church, as well as about “prudent guidance” regarding their admission to the seminary.
This incident was not the first. In May, Italian media reported similar remarks by the Pope at a closed meeting with bishops, where he also used a homophobic slur. At the time, Pope Francis apologized, claiming that he did not intend to offend anyone.
