Story highlights "Every homosexual person is a son of God," Monsignor Krysztof Olaf Charamsa says

He calls on Pope Francis to revise Catholic doctrine on homosexuality, which considers same-sex relationships sinful

Rome (CNN) A Polish priest who served with the Vatican's doctrinal arm will no longer be able to carry out his duties after announcing he is gay on the eve of a major church meeting, a Vatican spokesman said.

With his partner at his side, Monsignor Krysztof Olaf Charamsa held a news conference Saturday in Rome, calling on Pope Francis to revise Catholic doctrine on homosexuality, which considers same-sex relationships sinful.

Charamsa, 43, said the timing of the announcement was intended to put the topic before the Synod of Bishops. The three-week assembly of bishops from around the world beginning Sunday will address issues facing Catholic families.

"My decision of 'coming out' is a very personal decision in the homophobic world of the Catholic Church. It has been very difficult and very hard. I ask that you keep in mind this reality that is difficult to understand for anyone who has not lived through an identical passage in their own life," Charamsa told reporters.

"The timing is not intended to pressurize anyone, but maybe a good pressure, in fact a Christian participation, a Christian voice that wants to bring to the synod the response of the homosexual believers to the questioning of Pope Francis."

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