Pope Francis has apologised following reports that he used extremely derogatory language towards gay men. A statement from the Vatican said the Pope did not mean to offend anyone and apologised to those who were “hurt by the use of a word”. At the Italian Bishops’ Conference, the pope reportedly said gay men should not be allowed to train for the priesthood, adding there was already an air of frociaggine, which translates as a highly offensive slur. This meeting was in private, but has been widely reported. “Pope Francis is aware of the articles that have come out recently concerning a conversation he had with bishops… behind closed doors,” the statement quoted the director of the Holy See – the Catholic Church’s governing body – Matteo Bruni, as saying.