The Vatican has issued a groundbreaking new guideline allowing gay men to train as priests, provided they remain celibate.

This policy has been approved by the Italian bishops and will be implemented within the Catholic Church in Italy. The celibacy requirement, which already applies to heterosexual priests, will continue to be a key aspect of this new rule.

While this change marks a shift from previous Church teachings, which once deemed homosexual activity as "intrinsically disordered," it’s important to note that this policy will be practiced in Italy for now, and it remains uncertain whether it will be adopted globally.

The new guidelines suggest that a priest candidate's sexual preferences will be considered during the application process, but they should be seen as just one part of the candidate’s overall personality. The document advises against focusing solely on homosexuality, emphasizing that discernment should encompass the full scope of the individual's character.

However, it’s crucial to understand that women, regardless of their sexual orientation, are still prohibited from becoming Catholic priests. Only men can hold the title of Pope.

Pope Francis has faced criticism in the past for his more inclusive stance toward the LGBT+ community, and this new directive further reflects his approach to a more open dialogue within the Church.