During a closed-door discussion with Italian bishops last week, Pope Francis reportedly used an offensive term for gay men, according to two sources present in the room who spoke to NBC News.
The Vatican issued an apology on Tuesday “to those who were offended” after reports surfaced about the pontiff’s use of the derogatory term. The incident allegedly occurred during a gathering of bishops on May 20, where the topic of admitting homosexual men into seminaries was under discussion. Sources revealed that Francis used an Italian term considered vulgar when referring to a gay person.
Despite his previous reputation for a more inclusive stance towards the LGBTQ+ community, Francis reportedly reiterated his stance that gay men should not be allowed to train as priests, surprising some attendees with his choice of language.
In response to the reports, the Vatican released a statement on Tuesday, acknowledging the discussions that took place behind closed doors. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni emphasized the pope’s repeated message of inclusivity within the Church, stating, “In the Church there is room for everyone, for everyone! No one is useless, no one is superfluous, there is room for everyone. Just as we are, everyone.” Bruni clarified that the pope did not intend to offend or express homophobic sentiments and extended apologies to those offended by the reported use of the term.