NEW YORK
Vatican Insider
In an interview with “Vatican Insider”, American Vaticanista John Allen weighs in on Pope Francis’ comments about the “gay lobby” in the Vatican
PAOLO MASTROLILLI
NEW YORK
What do you think the Pope meant?
“It’s important to remember that the “gay lobby” phrase came up in the context of the Vatileaks scandal, when the big question was who’s behind it. The theory was that maybe gays were involved, not because they’re gay, but because somebody with a secret to keep could be vulnerable to pressure and blackmail. The concern isn’t really sexual orientation, but whether somebody is working against the pope’s interests.”
How is this lobby functioning inside the Vatican?
“I’m not sure it’s really a “lobby” … I doubt they have meetings or a secret handshake. However, people leading a double life – whether it’s about sex, money or anything else – often feel a natural affinity with one another.”
Is this comment related to the Pope’s effort to reform the Curia, to the sexual abuses, or both?
“It’s related to reform of the Roman Curia, in that Francis wants to make sure decisions are being made for the right reasons and not because of hidden pressures.”
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