Live Science

The Catholic Church hasn't fallen, and teachings do not condone contraception ... but in a new book released today (Nov. 23) Pope Benedict XVI says condoms can be justified for male prostitutes seeking to prevent the spread of HIV, according to news outlets.

The comment is in stark contrast to the pope's comments last year suggesting condoms only worsen the AIDS problem, and it seems to be a significant shift from church teachings opposed to condoms as a form of artificial contraception. However, Benedict said condoms aren't a moral solution, but that in some cases they could be justified "with the intent of reducing the risk of infection."