The Vatican has approved homosexuals to become priests, provided they observe celibacy and refrain from promoting “gay culture,” according to a directive published by the Italian Bishops’ Conference (CIE).
The document, approved by the CIE in November, was published with the Vatican’s permission and remains in force for a three-year probationary period.
“Persons with homosexual tendencies who wish to join the priesthood must observe celibacy, as do their non-homosexual colleagues,” the document states.
However, the document states that the Church cannot admit to the seminary and holy orders those who practice homosexuality, have deep-rooted homosexual tendencies or support so-called gay culture.
“In fact, these individuals find themselves in a situation that seriously hinders correct relations with men and women,” the document states.
While the new rules offer a path to the priesthood for gay men, the Church adheres to a decree issued by Pope Francis in 2016 that bars men who “practice homosexuality and display deep-seated homosexual tendencies” from becoming priests.
While the pope has never opposed the Catholic Church’s catechism, which says “homosexuality is an essential disorder,” he has made several concessions to the LGBT community, including a December 2023 ruling allowing priests to bless unmarried and same-sex couples.
