New guidelines from the Italian Bishops’ Conference propose that gay men should not automatically be barred from entering the priesthood, provided they meet other conditions required for ordination.
The report, titled Guidelines and Norms for Seminaries, emphasises a more comprehensive evaluation of candidates, stating: “When referring to homosexual tendencies, it’s also appropriate not to reduce discernment only to this aspect, but, as for every candidate, to grasp its meaning in the global framework of the young person’s personality.”
However, the guidelines reaffirm that all priests, regardless of sexual orientation, are expected to adhere to the vow of celibacy.
Historically, the Catholic Church has deemed homosexuality as “intrinsically disordered” and previously prohibited men who “practice homosexuality, present deep-seated homosexual tendencies, or support the so-called gay culture” from being ordained. These new guidelines signal a notable shift, advocating for a more holistic view of priestly candidates, where sexuality is just one aspect of a candidate’s overall character and fitness for the role.
Despite this progress, it is uncertain whether the guidelines will influence policies in other countries.
The move aligns with Pope Francis’ relatively inclusive stance toward the LGBTQ+ community. In a 2023 interview with the Associated Press, Francis stated, “being homosexual isn’t a crime,” and he has previously approved blessings for same-sex couples, though not marriages.
While Francis has been more supportive of LGBTQ+ rights compared to his predecessors, he has maintained that gay men should not enter the priesthood. In May 2024, he called for careful screening of seminary candidates and reiterated that priests pursuing sexual relationships, regardless of orientation, should leave the priesthood.
The guidelines from the Italian Bishops’ Conference are seen as a step forward in recognising that priestly candidates should be evaluated based on their entire character and spiritual calling rather than their sexual orientation alone. While these changes indicate progress within the Church, their full impact on Catholic communities worldwide remains to be seen.