Pro-LGBTQ Catholic organization responded to Pope Francis' new book, The Strength of a Vocation, in which the pontiff is quoted in recent news reports as saying that gay people should not apply for or be admitted to the Catholic priesthood or religious communities because "in consecrated and priestly life, there is no room for that kind of affection."
DignityUSA Executive Director Marianne Duddy-Burke released a statement saying, in part, "It is very damaging and unsupported by the facts for the Pope to suggest that gay people are less able than others to commit themselves to religious and ministerial life, or that they are somehow a threat to the church and its members.
""His comments reinforce negative and long discredited stereotypes that have led to discrimination and violence against our community. Furthermore, they are demeaning to all the lesbian sisters and gay priests and brothers who have faithfully served the church for decades, and to all who are currently preparing for such ministries.
"Would it not better serve the needs of the People of God as their chief shepherd if the Pope were to focus his attention and words on a broader vision of celebrating all expressions of humanity in dedicated service to the Church?"