Adding fuel to the fire Father Albert Cutie, or Alberto Cutié as he is known in Miami, appeared in an interview with spanish network Univision. In the interview he defends his position for being sexually active, challenging the Catholic church’s tradition of celibacy amongst priest.

“I never stopped being a man by putting on the cassock” he said during the interview which aired on Friday. “I am a man and I suffer from the human condition” he added.

Caught by paparazzi fondling a woman on the northern part of Miami beach, Cutie is now attacking the concept of celibacy; but he does so with a humble attitude. He attributes his approach to his concern for his followers who are feeling hurt of betrayed by his actions.

When asked about his partner, Ruhama Canellis, the priest said he was very attracted to her both physically and spiritually, as she shares with him the passion for god; and having fallen in love with her. He went on to add “I will not ask for forgiveness for falling in love”.

Father Cutie fended off hard questions like a true professional, confronting his interviewer with clear concise answers. Even joking at one point when the interviewer asked “Why do you think people want to know?” and responding amidst laughter “because people love gossip”.

The Priest, who gave the interview fully dressed as his position within the church requires went on to close “I do not regret falling in love, I wasn’t looking for it. You can’t plan for love. It just happened”.

Ruhama Canellis is a divorced mother of one.