The Vatican has issued a formal apology following reports that Pope Francis used a derogatory term during a discussion about gay men, sparking outrage and controversy. The incident occurred during a closed-door meeting where the Pope allegedly used the Italian word “frociaggine,” which roughly translates to “f****try” in English, according to multiple Italian media sources.
Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, addressed the issue in a statement, acknowledging the recent articles concerning the Pope’s conversation with bishops. He clarified that Pope Francis never intended to offend or use homophobic language, expressing regret and apologizing to anyone who felt hurt or offended by the use of the word.
The reported remarks by the Pope included comments about the admission of homosexual men into seminaries, where he remarked about an “air of f****try” that he perceived as not being conducive to the seminary environment. This statement has drawn criticism, especially considering Pope Francis’ previous statements advocating for inclusivity and non-judgment within the Catholic Church.
The Pope’s alleged use of the offensive slur comes as a surprise to many, given his reputation for a more liberal approach compared to his predecessors. He has previously made statements supporting the acceptance of individuals with diverse sexual orientations within the Church, notably stating, “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?”
While some bishops suggested that the Pope may not have been fully aware of the derogatory term’s meaning, others expressed concern over the impact of such language, particularly in a religious context that emphasizes compassion and understanding. The incident has reignited discussions about the Church’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues and the need for greater sensitivity and awareness within its leadership.
Despite the controversy, Pope Francis’ administration has made strides in addressing inclusivity, including approving a ruling that allows priests to bless unmarried and same-sex couples. However, this recent incident underscores ongoing challenges and complexities within the Catholic Church regarding LGBTQ+ acceptance and language use.
Sources By Agencies
