Pope embroiled in 'homosexual slur' row after alleged outburst about seminaries

28 May 2024 , 09:55

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Pope Francis alleged objected to admitting gay men to train as priests (Image: Stefano Costantino/SOPA Images/REX/Shutterstock)

The Pope is alleged to have used a homosexual slur during a private meeting with bishops over the admittance of gay men into theological colleges.

Pope Francis, 87, allegedly made the remark during a meeting with Italian bishops in Rome on May 20. The slur was uttered as they discussed whether they should be admitted into Catholic seminaries where priests are trained.

During the private meeting, one bishop asked for guidance when the pontiff allegedly repeated his objection to admitting gay men, adding while it was important to admit everyone he believed a homosexual might lead a double life.

The Pope is then alleged to have said there was too much "frociaggine" in seminaries. The word is an Italian slur that roughly translates to "f****ness."

The Mirror has contacted the Vatican's press office for comment.

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Pope Francis allegedly uttered the slur during a meeting with bishops (Evandro Inetti/ZUMA Press Wire/REX/Shutterstock)

The allegation was first published on the gossip website Dagospia before being reported on by other Italian outlets. La Repubblica and others then quoted an unnamed bishop who said the Pope meant the slur as a "joke" and that meeting attendees were surprised he used it.

The outlet also reported there had been a meeting between the Pope and bishops in November where they discussed whether gay men should be admitted to seminaries.

Pope Francis previously made inclusive comments about gay people (Maria Grazia Picciarella/REX/Shutterstock)

Since being elected as Pope in 2013, Francis has made public statements that have been perceived as more inclusive toward the LGBTQ community. In July that year, Pope Francis said if homosexuals "accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them?"

He also approved a ruling in December that allowed priests to bless unmarried and gay couples. It marked a major departure from the Catholic Church's stance toward the community.

Last year Pope Francis said homosexuality is not a crime, while sexual acts outside marriage were considered to be a sin. He also urged Catholics to show "tenderness" toward the the LGBTQ community.

Anders Anglesey