In a rare public apology, Pope Francis expressed remorse for using a derogatory term to describe the 2SLGBTQ+ community during a meeting with Italian bishops. The Vatican stated that the Pope did not intend to use homophobic language and remains committed to a welcoming church for all. His reported comments have stirred controversy and surprise, as the Pope has been praised for his previous efforts towards inclusivity.
Pope Francis Apologizes for Derogatory Language Towards LGBTQ+ Community
Pope Francis has issued a rare public apology for using a derogatory term to describe the 2SLGBTQ+ community during a meeting with Italian bishops. The Vatican clarified that the Pope did not intend to use homophobic language and remains committed to a welcoming church for all.
Background
Pope Francis has been praised for his efforts towards inclusivity since his election in 2013. He has made several statements and gestures of support for the LGBTQ+ community, such as:
The Incident
During a meeting with Italian bishops on May 12, 2022, Pope Francis reportedly used the term "transgender" in a dismissive and derogatory manner. The term "transgender" is generally considered offensive and outdated in modern society.
The Apology
Following widespread criticism, the Vatican released a statement apologizing for the Pope's choice of words. The statement emphasized that Pope Francis "did not intend to use homophobic language" and remains "committed to the path of dialogue and respect towards all."
Controversy
Pope Francis' apology has stirred controversy and surprise among both supporters and critics. Some argue that the apology is not enough and that the Pope should take more concrete action to address homophobia in the Catholic Church. Others defend the Pope's commitment to inclusivity, arguing that his apology is a step in the right direction.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Did Pope Francis use homophobic language?
Yes, Pope Francis reportedly used the term "transgender" in a dismissive and derogatory manner, which is generally considered homophobic language.
2. Did Pope Francis intend to use homophobic language?
No, the Vatican stated that Pope Francis did not intend to use homophobic language.
3. Has Pope Francis made other statements about the LGBTQ+ community?
Yes, Pope Francis has made several statements and gestures of support for the LGBTQ+ community, including advocating for civil unions and welcoming transgender people into the church.
4. What was the reaction to Pope Francis' apology?
The apology has stirred controversy and surprise among both supporters and critics, with some arguing that it is not enough and others defending the Pope's commitment to inclusivity.
5. What is the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the Catholic Church?
The future of LGBTQ+ rights in the Catholic Church is uncertain. Pope Francis has expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community, but the church's official teachings remain conservative and opposed to same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ+ individuals.
The political and security leadership in Pakistan faced a difficult situation as supporters of jailed Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with security forces in the heart of capital Islamabad while foreign delegations were holding talks with officials. The protest, which resulted in six deaths, was held in the "Red Zone" where several high-profile institutions, including the parliament house and prime minister's residence, are located. The clashes coincided with the visit of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, who had several meetings scheduled during his stay. In an effort to control the situation, Islamabad was virtually sealed off with containers and barbed wires, causing chaos and disrupting the diplomatic visit.
An Indian man, identified as Deepesh Gohel, was arrested by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad for sharing sensitive information about Coast Guard ships with a Pakistani agent through Facebook. The accused had been in contact with the agent for seven months and received payment of Rs 200 per day for providing information. The accused had been charged with criminal conspiracy against the state and an espionage case has been registered.
The India Meteorological Department has warned of the arrival of cyclone 'Fengal' on Saturday afternoon, close to the city of Puducherry, with wind speeds of up to 90 kmph. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds have already hit several parts of northern Tamil Nadu, causing water logging and affecting normalcy. Residents are taking precautions such as parking their vehicles in safe areas, while authorities have deployed workers and emergency personnel to vulnerable places. The city's transportation services have also been affected, with flight schedules being disrupted and limited public transport services.
Cyclone Fengal, currently located over the southwest Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall near Chennai tomorrow evening. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for the coastal areas of North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the adjoining south Andhra Pradesh. With heavy rains and gusty winds predicted, the Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges in four districts. The Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre has also issued an extremely heavy rainfall warning for three districts in Andhra Pradesh. Residents have been advised to take precautions and authorities are preparing for the impact of the cyclone.
As Cyclone Fengal makes its way towards the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, the India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for the region. Expected to hit the coast by Saturday evening, the cyclone has already caused changes in weather, with high tides and heavy rainfall. The IMD reports that it will cross the region between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, bringing wind speeds of 70-80 km/h, posing a danger to the affected areas.
In a landmark development, India has secured its re-election to the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission for the 2025-2026 term. With its unwavering commitment to promoting peace and stability globally, India's continued involvement in the commission is a testament to its efforts in maintaining global harmony. With a significant number of Indian personnel deployed in volatile regions, this reaffirms India's vital role in international peacekeeping initiatives.
A major offensive by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and thousands of insurgents has breached Aleppo's western edge, marking the most intense violence in northwestern Syria since 2020. The attack has caused widespread displacement and disrupted services, with experts warning of potential destabilization in the region. Iran's involvement in Syria has been challenged by intensified Israeli strikes, while Turkey has reportedly supported the insurgents with strategic aid. This latest development has raised fears of prolonged instability and a potential impact on neighboring countries and ongoing humanitarian efforts in the conflict-torn region.
The Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Toronto is set to host a consular camp on Saturday, and in light of recent violent incidents, the temple's management filed an application for an injunction to prevent protests within a 100-meter radius. The court noted that while violence is not guaranteed, the intimidation of elderly attendees at the temple for consular services or worship constitutes harm to both individuals and the wider community. The ruling also highlights tensions between pro-Khalistan groups, such as Sikhs for Justice, and India's consulate, calling for increased security measures and arrests in response to recent events.
In a coordinated operation, the Indian Navy, with support from the Sri Lankan Navy, successfully intercepted and seized approximately 500 kg of crystal meth from Sri Lankan fishing vessels in the Arabian Sea. The joint effort highlights the growing partnership between the two nations in combating drug trafficking and maintaining security in the Indian Ocean Region. The operation also showcases India's commitment to strengthening its maritime security and coastal defence mechanisms.
The NIA (National Investigation Agency) has apprehended Indian man Salman Rahman Khan in Rwanda, after he was red-flagged by Interpol for allegedly funding and arming terrorist groups in Bengaluru. This high-profile suspect, dubbed as "India's enemy," was captured by security officials in New Delhi and is expected to be extradited to India for further investigation. Stay informed on this developing story by joining our WhatsApp channel for live updates.