Irish Examiner
Speaking to journalists on his return from World Youth Day celebrations in Brazil, the pontiff said gay clergymen should be forgiven and their sins forgotten.
When asked about homosexuality and the church, Pope Francis said: “If someone seeks the Lord in good faith, who am I to judge?”
Vatican observers say his comments are among the most “compassionate” words towards gay people by any pontiff.
Pope Francis also appeared to open the door towards women having a bigger role in the Church, but he said the “door had been closed” on women becoming priests.
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