The key to this issue is to screen out homosexuals before they are ordained but that will not happen because it's too politically incorrect and would cause a furore amongst the liberal elites for which the Church currently has no stomach. The Church, in its Catechism calls homosexuality "a disorder" and it is for this reason that a little over 50 years ago, a decree was issued that homosexuals should not be ordained.
The document entitled “Careful Selection and Training of Candidates for the States of Perfection and Sacred Orders” was promulgated by the Vatican’s Sacred Congregation for Religious on February 2, 1961 and said.....
“Advancement to religious vows and ordination should be barred to those who are afflicted with evil tendencies to homosexuality or pederasty, since for them the common life and the priestly ministry would constitute serious dangers”.
The consequences of ignoring this decree have been disastrous.
Sure, some homosexuals will slip through the cracks but there has to be a hierarchy of measures in place and first among these is the reform of the seminaries. For those who make it through to ordination, it's incumbent on the bishops to act like true pastors if and when these men committ abuse. However, the Church must be proactive and state clearly that sexual disorders, including but not limited to homosexuality, are a deal breaker for ordination to the priesthood.
"Who am I to judge" is a recipe for disaster when it comes to screening applicants for the seminary. It's essential that a judgment is made on the suitability of candidates for ordination. If those with a fondness for Latin and traditional liturgies can be shown the door, then so can those with same sex attraction disorder.
Have you not seen a better screening process in the last 5-7 years? Would really like your opinion. God bless.
**Until I see the words “rigorous screening of those entering the seminary”, or similar words conveying that meaning, **
This has happened, thanks to Pope Benedict XVI who sent emissaries to the seminaries to inspect them.
Now applicants must take a two day psychological exam, parents are interviewed, parish priest is interviewed, friends are interviewed.
More interviews for the applicant.
And hopefully he is approved.