The President of the Italian Bishop’s ’ Episcopal Commission for the Clergy and Consecrated Life, Bishop Stefano Manetti of Fiesole, and the Italian bishops’ newspaper have denied widespread allegations that the Catholic Church in Italy will now allow gay men into seminaries to be formed as priests, contradicting earlier media reports.
The prelate and the newspaper have denied allegations that the Church has relaxed its criteria for seminary admissions, specifically with regard to individuals with same-sex attraction. They emphasized that the Church’s teaching on human sexuality and vocation remains unchanged.
According to the statement, the Church continues to uphold its traditional teachings, which emphasize the importance of chastity and celibacy for those pursuing a life of ministry. The prelate and the newspaper reaffirmed that the Church’s stance on human sexuality is rooted in scripture and tradition.
The clarification comes in response to earlier media reports that suggested the Church was revising its approach to seminary admissions. The reports had sparked widespread debate and speculation about the Church’s teachings on human sexuality.
By reaffirming the Church’s traditional teachings, the Italian prelate and the bishops’ newspaper aim to provide clarity and reassurance to Catholics around the world. The statement underscores the Church’s commitment to upholding its doctrine and traditions, while also promoting a message of compassion, understanding, and respect for all individuals.
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