Pope tells gay priests to leave, if can't be celibate
What's the story
In what makes for his clearest statement on homosexuality, Pope Francis has asked homosexual clergy to leave priesthood if they cannot remain celibate.
In a book-length interview, called "The Strength of Vocation", with Spanish priest Fernando Prado, Pope Francis clarified his stand.
He said being gay was fashionable these days, and the clergy is susceptible to this.
The book would be published this week.
What he said
Question of homosexuality is a serious one: Pope
The pontiff was speaking in regards with would-be priests. He said those responsible for the training of priests should ensure they are 'humanly and emotionally mature' before they are ordained.
The same rule applies to women hoping to become nuns.
He added, "The question of homosexuality is a very serious one that must be adequately discerned from the beginning with the candidates."
Quote
Homosexuality is fashionable in society, says Pope
"In our societies, it even seems that homosexuality is fashionable and that mentality, in some way, also influences the life of the church. This is something I am concerned about, because perhaps at one time it did not receive much attention," the Pope added.
Stand
No room for homosexual tendencies in church, says Pope
The Roman Catholic church thinks being gay is a sin and the Pope reiterated the same thoughts.
He said there was no room for such homosexual acts in the church and called for better screening.
"For this reason, the church urges that persons with this rooted tendency not be accepted into [priestly] ministry or consecrated life," he said.
Details
Earlier, Pope had taken a softer approach towards homosexuality
The Pope urged homosexual priests to live a celibate life with integrity and act responsibly.
He added, "It's better for them to leave the ministry or the consecrated life rather than to live a double life."
Earlier, taking a softer stand on homosexuality, Pope said if someone was gay and was searching for Lord and has good will, who was he to judge.