Pope Francis has issued an apology for using a homophobic slur during a closed-door meeting with Italian bishops, where he reiterated the Vatican’s stance on not allowing gay men to enter seminaries or the priesthood. The comment was initially leaked on an Italian gossip site and then reported by Italian media, citing unnamed Italian bishops. Despite the Pope’s history of more inclusive remarks towards the LGBTQ+ community, this incident has sparked surprise and disappointment. The Vatican’s spokesperson clarified that the Pope did not intend to offend or hurt anyone with his language.
Pope Francis apologized for using a homophobic slur in a meeting with Italian bishops.
The comment was initially leaked by an Italian gossip site and reported by Italian media.
The incident contradicts Pope Francis’s previous inclusive remarks towards the LGBTQ+ community.
The Vatican’s stance on not admitting gay men to seminaries or the priesthood was reaffirmed.
The Vatican spokesperson stated the Pope did not intend to offend or use homophobic language.
Italian is not Pope Francis’s first language, which some supporters suggest could have contributed to the misuse of language.
LGBTQ+ Catholic groups have welcomed the apology but seek further clarification on the Vatican’s position.
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