Pope Francis apologises for ‘offensive’ comment

Pope Francis has apologised for an offensive term he was alleged to have used during private talks with bishops about whether gay men should be admitted to seminaries.

Matteo Bruni of the Vatican press office said, “The Pope never intended to offend or express himself in homophobic terms, and he apologises to those who felt offended by the use of a term reported by others.”

Italian newspapers reported yesterday that Pope Francis, who is 87, had apparently said there was already too much “frociaggine”, or “faggotness”, in some seminaries. The term in Italian is generally considered highly offensive. Pope Francis, although from Argentina, is fluent in Italian.

LGBT+ Catholics Westminster said in a statement that Pope Francis’ alleged use of the word would be considered offensive, not only by LGBT+ Catholics but also by those who offer ordained ministry among the people of God.

“LGBT+ Catholics Westminster question why his off-the-cuff remark was not challenged within the Italian Bishops Conference meeting, rather than being leaked to controversial media sources. Is this another example in which sexuality and gender identity are being used to weaponise against the Pope’s consistent welcoming of LGBT+ Catholics, parents and families?  We prefer to judge Pope Francis by the many positive things that he has said and done for LGBT+ Catholics, parents and families, rather than collude with those who seek to undermine him.”

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