Hozier Says the Pope's Gay Rights Agenda '100 Years' Too Late for Homophobia

Irish pop star Hozier recently revealed that his hit single, "Take Me To Church," was inspired by his disdain for the Catholic Church's "aversion to homosexuality." The singer also discussed The Pope's recent comments regarding gay rights, saying they came "100 years" too late to combat homophobia.

During a recent interview conducted by Kelly Osbourne on Larry King Now, Hozier was critical of the Catholic Church as an organization and Pope Francis' recent comments on the topic. "This is one of the paradoxes and weird hypocrisy of that organization," he stated "The pope came here last year and said, 'Who am I to judge with regards to somebody's sexual orientation?'"

He further added, "I think it is important to differentiate between lip service towards something and actually making change. I think it is hopeful, but saying this in 2015, 'Who am I to judge?' is something that should have been said 100 years ago."

Speaking more on his inspiration for his massive 2013 hit single, he stated: "It is one [an institution] that has institutionalized gender inequality as well, dangerous policy over contraception and, in this case, it still harbors an irrational aversion to homosexuality. Which in my view I think that is why I was driven to write 'Take Me to Church.' I think the church provides an excuse for homophobia."

He went on to talk more about his negative opinion on baptism and how the Catholic Church is run in Ireland, views of his that he revealed to Irish presenter, Gay Byrne, back in September.

Hozier's "Take Me To Church" has been certified five times platinum in the United States. The song, which was nominated for Song of the Year at the 57th Grammy Awards, appears on the singer's 2014 self-titled debut album.