ROME - The Vatican reportedly has failed to respond to an application by France to request the accreditation of Laurent Stefanini as their new ambassador to the Holy See. This has sparked speculation in the press that the Holy See has rejected the application on account of Stefanini’s homosexuality.

 According to reports in Le Monde, Pope Francis has decided to “freeze the dossier,” concerning the appointment of the openly gay M. Stefanini, who is widely regarded as one of France’s most assured diplomats and is a friend of President Hollande.

 France’s Council of Ministers accepted the nomination of M. Stefanini Jan. 5, according to reports, which also suggest that as most ambassadorships are accepted within a month and a half; this three-month delay can be interpreted as a rejection.

 The Vatican is yet to release an official statement on the issue, but pundits claim the lack of a response reflects badly on the papacy of Francis who is widely considered to be one of the most open-minded leaders in the history of the Catholic Church. 

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