Vatican hit by gay sex scandal

Guardian ^ | March 4th 2010 | John Hooper in Romei

[Cardhu]

Vatican chorister sacked for allegedly procuring male prostitutes for papal gentleman-in-waiting.

The Vatican was today rocked by a sex scandal reaching into Pope Benedict's household after a chorister was sacked for allegedly procuring male prostitutes for a papal gentleman-in-waiting.

Angelo Balducci, a Gentleman of His Holiness, was caught by police on a wiretap allegedly negotiating with Thomas Chinedu Ehiem, a 29-year-old Vatican chorister, over the specific physical details of men he wanted brought to him. Transcripts in the possession of the Guardian suggest that numerous men may have been procured for Balducci, at least one of whom was studying for the priesthood.

The explosive claims about Balducci's private life have caused grave embarrassment to the Vatican, which has yet to publicly comment on the affair.

While Catholicism does not condemn homosexuality outright, its teaching is that homosexual acts "are intrinsically disordered". The Catechism of the Catholic church states unequivocally: "Under no circumstances can they be approved."

Balducci was arrested on 10 February, suspected of involvement in widespread corruption. A senior Italian government official, he is alleged to have to steered public works contracts towards favoured bidders. He has not been charged.

[TaxRelief]

Maybe it’s time to infiltrate ACORN and target them from the inside...

[Dr. Eckleburg]

So what’s your explanation for public schools, where far more sexual abuse of kids takes place?

Not necessarily "more," but the fact that it exists is for the same reason -- both institutions are rife with homosexuals.

[JudyinCanada]

It’s the whole position of trust, access to children thing. Both positions attract homosexuals. Throw in the Boy Scouts while we’re at it, although I don’t know if there have been sexual abuse issues with them. We’ve also had problems up here with hockey coaches.

[Quix]

And every congregation, denomination, group, organization is rife with destructive sinners of all kinds.

Some believe in their hearts and confess with their mouths that Jesus’ Blood is sufficient covering and some do not.

[Dr. Eckleburg]

AMEN.

[Quix]

THANKS for your kind reply.

[Dr. Eckleburg]

It’s the whole position of trust, access to children thing. Both positions attract homosexuals.

I was surprised to learn on this forum from Roman Catholics that the Roman Catholic church teaches that its priests are an "alter Christus" - "another Christ." The papacy believes the orders given to a priest elevate him to the status of Christ (thus he's able to offer the sacrifice over and over in the mass.)

It doesn't take a degree in psychology to realize that attitude creates a myriad of problems, not the least of which is how children are taught to view these men.

Imagine being a 10-year-old alter boy confronted by an sexually abusive priest's demands. The boy has been taught this isn't just a guy before him; it's Jesus Christ.

Parents. Wake up and protect your children.

[JudyinCanada]

Priests are considered “another Christ”? I had no idea. Now that is scary, whether it’s priest, pastor, or, dare I say, pope.

I can’t help but wonder how any could consider himself another Christ.

[Trailerpark Badass]

As context, the events described in that film took place more than 20 years ago.