Gay men will be allowed into Roman
Catholic seminaries to train to be priests but they must observe
celibacy according to Catholic doctrine that holds that
non-practising homosexuals are not sinners, the Italian Bishops
Conference (CEI) said in new guidelines Friday.
To be admitted to the seminary, one must show from the beginning
"an orientation towards celibate life", the CEI guide said.
In this perspective, there will not be a barrier to homosexuals
as such but to those who "practise" homosexual acts.
"In the formative process, when reference is made to homosexual
tendencies it is appropriate not to reduce discernment to this
aspect alone", the guide said.
"The objective of the formation of the candidate for the
priesthood in the affective-sexual sphere is the ability to
accept as a gift, to freely choose and to live responsibly
chastity in celibacy".
It is reiterated instead that "the Church, while deeply
respecting the people in question, cannot admit to the Seminary
and to Holy Orders those who practise homosexuality".
photo: CEI chief Cardinal Matteo Zuppi
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