Following his previous apology for using a highly offensive term towards homosexual men, Pope Francis is once again under scrutiny for reportedly using the same derogatory language.
Pope Francis had initially employed this language during a closed-door discussion with bishops, referring to certain aspects of the priesthood as being too full of “frociaggine” – a highly offensive Italian slur.
An Italian news agency, ANSA, reported that the Pope reiterated the term during a meeting with Roman priests, expressing concern about an atmosphere of “frociaggine” within the Vatican and suggesting that young men with homosexual inclinations should not enter the seminary.
Responding to the recent allegations, the Vatican referred to a previous statement regarding the Pope’s meeting with priests, emphasizing his stance on embracing gay individuals within the Church while exercising caution with their inclusion in the priesthood.
During the closed-door meeting on 20 May, he reiterated his belief that homosexual men should not pursue priesthood.
In a subsequent statement, the Vatican clarified: “Pope Francis reiterates his inclusive stance within the Church, emphasizing that there is room for everyone, and he expresses regret if any individuals were offended by the reported language.”
As reported by Il Messaggero, a national newspaper in Rome, these remarks were made during an informal session at the annual bishops’ gathering with over 200 clergy members present.
Supporters of the Pope have suggested that as Spanish is his primary language, linguistic errors may occur when speaking in other languages.
A report by Corriere della Sera, a Milan-based daily, cited unnamed bishops present at the meeting indicating that the Pope may not have been aware of the offensiveness of the Italian term due to his Argentine background.
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Throughout his papacy, Francis has been lauded for promoting a more inclusive approach towards the LGBT+ community.
In a statement in 2013, he stated: “Who am I to judge if a gay person seeks God and demonstrates good intentions?”
Despite backlash, his decision last year to allow blessings for same-sex couples showcased a progressive stance, while previous directives to Italian bishops in 2018 advised scrutiny of priesthood candidates suspected of being gay.