Gay Men to be Allowed into Roman Catholic Seminaries
The Italian Bishops Conference (CEI) has announced new guidelines allowing gay men to be admitted into Roman Catholic seminaries to train to become priests. However, they must agree to observe celibacy, according to Catholic doctrine.
To be admitted to the seminary, candidates must demonstrate an orientation towards a celibate life from the beginning. The CEI guide emphasizes that the focus will not be on individual sexual orientation, but rather on the candidate’s ability to accept, choose, and live responsibly in chastity and celibacy.
The guidelines state that while the Church respects individuals with same-sex tendencies, it cannot admit those who practice homosexuality to the seminary or Holy Orders. The CEI chief, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, reiterated this stance, highlighting the importance of forming candidates to live responsibly in chastity and celibacy.