Vatican comes out against gay lobby

ROME (Reuter) - The Vatican, in a document condemned by gay groups, said homosexuals could legitimately be discriminated against in employment, housing and the adoption of children.

The document says 'there is no right to homosexuality' and repeats the Vatican's assertion that 'homosexual orientation is an objective disorder'. It was prepared as guidance for bishops, particularly those in the United States, to help them formulate positions on anti-discrimination legislation.

'Sexual orientation does not constitute a quality comparable to race or ethnic background. Unlike these, homosexual orientation is an objective disorder,' the document said. 'There are areas in which it is not unjust discrimination to take sexual orientation into account: the placement of children for adoption, the employment of teachers or athletic coaches and military recruitment.'