The Vatican has approved new guidelines stating homosexual men to train as Catholic priests in Italy, but with specific conditions. The guidelines, released by the Italian Bishops' Conference, emphasise celibacy but prohibit men who "flaunt" their homosexuality or support "gay culture."

The 68-page document outlines that gay men can enter seminaries, or divinity schools, but those who openly display their homosexuality will be excluded. The guidelines stress that "the Church... cannot admit to the seminary and to Holy Orders those who practice homosexuality, present deeply rooted homosexual tendencies, or support the so-called gay culture." However, it also calls for an assessment of each individual’s "overall personality" when considering their eligibility.

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Pope Francis, known for encouraging a more inclusive Catholic Church, has made efforts to reach out to LGBTQ Catholics, even though the Church still maintains that same-sex acts are "intrinsically disordered." In a 2013 statement, the Pope famously said, "if someone is gay and is searching for the Lord and has good will, then who am I to judge him?" However, in a recent private meeting, the Pope used a vulgar term against gay men, which stirred controversy.

Supporters call guidelines a step forward

Some LGBTQ Catholic advocates have welcomed the new guidelines. Francis DeBernardo, head of the US-based New Ways Ministry, called the document a "big step forward," as it clears up previous confusion about the eligibility of gay men for seminary. US Jesuit priest James Martin also praised the guidelines, stating that they open the door for gay men who can live a "chaste and celibate life" to be considered for priesthood.

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