The Distinction between Deep-Seated Homosexual Tendencies and Transitory Same-Sex Attractions in Candidates for Seminary and Religious Life

Abstract

The sexual abuse crisis in the Church, in which the primary victims were adolescent males, highlights the importance of the 2005 document from the Vatican's Congregation for Catholic Education on the selection of candidates for priesthood and religious life in regard to homosexuality. A thorough in-depth clinical interview that focuses on masculine identity and an evaluation of the development of a positive masculine identity through secure attachment relationships with the father, male peers, and a brother, as well as a positive body image and thorough psychological testing, can distinguish clearly between deep-seated homosexual tendencies and transitory same-sex attractions in candidates for priesthood.

The lack of secure, accepting, and positive relationships with the male peers, the father, and a brother can result in weaknesses in male confidence, sadness, and anger which are major unconscious factors in the development of same-sex attractions. The process of resolving transitory same-sex attractions in candidates and in seminarians is also described in this article. The implementation of this Vatican document is important in the protection of minors from sexual abuse and of the Church from further shame and sorrow.