Uproar as Catholic parishes hand out condoms

Roman Catholic parishes in central Switzerland have caused an uproar by distributing condoms as part of an HIV-AIDS awareness campaign.

Parishes in the city of Lucerne started handing out thousands of condoms as part of an effort to engage young people.

Other Swiss churches say the campaign is irresponsible because it sends the wrong message about AIDS prevention.

But a spokesman for the Lucerne church, Florian Flohr, says it is time for an open debate in the Catholic Church about condom use.

"In practice, some people live according to the principles of the Church but others, especially men - those who need many women - live in another way and need protection," he said.

"I think we have to give a sign to the people that we are open to speak about all problems and without taboos about this question of AIDS."

The Vatican staunchly opposes contraception and Pope Benedict XVI drew criticism during a visit to Africa last year for saying that condom use could be aggravating the AIDS crisis.

The Swiss Bishops' Conference declined to comment on the campaign.

"Catholic doctrine is clear on issues of sexuality. In this instance it's a practical issue, a particular issue to do with AIDS," spokesman Walter Mueller said.

The diocese of Basel, which oversees Lucerne, was discussing the issue with its followers in the city.

A spokesman underlined that human sexuality had to be based on faithfulness.

"But if people don't know how to live like that, then they might as well use a condom," said Giuseppe Gracia.