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In an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday, the pontiff termed laws that make homosexuality a criminal offense as "unjust”, insisting that God loves all his children.
"Being homosexual isn't a crime," Pope Francis told the publication.
While acknowledging that Catholic bishops in some parts of the world support laws that criminalize same-sex relations, Francis attributed such attitudes to cultural backgrounds, adding that bishops need to undergo a process of change to recognize the dignity of everyone.
"These bishops have to have a process of conversion," he said, adding that they should apply "tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us."
The 86-year-old said the Catholic Church should work to put an end to such “unjust” laws that criminalize homosexuality and discriminate against the LGBTQ community.
"It must do this. It must do this," he said.
Quoting the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the pope said gay people must be welcomed and respected, and not marginalized or discriminated against.
"We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity," Francis said.
The global leader of the Catholic church further noted that there needed to be a distinction between a crime and a sin with regard to homosexuality.
"Being homosexual is not a crime. It's not a crime. Yes, but it's a sin. Fine, but first let's distinguish between a sin and a crime. It's also a sin to lack charity with one another," he added.
Some 67 countries or jurisdictions around the world, including Kenya, criminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity, 11 of which can or do impose the death penalty, according to The Human Dignity Trust.
Courtesy: Mwakilishi
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