The Vatican has sharply criticised a book on sexuality written by an American nun, saying it contradicted church teaching on issues like masturbation, homosexuality and marriage.

 The Vatican's orthodoxy office said the 2006 book, "Just Love: A Framework for Christian Sexual Ethics" by Sister Margaret Farley, posed "grave harm" to the faithful.

Specifically, the Vatican rejected her views on four subjects, masturbation, homosexual acts, homosexual unions and remarriage after divorce.

Farley writes that homosexual marriage can help reduce hatred, rejection and stigmatisation of gays. The Church opposes gay marriage.

In another passage, Farley states that 'same-sex oriented persons as well as their activities can and should be respected'.

The review of the book took years, as the Vatican repeatedly urged Farley to change her text to conform with church doctrine.

She refused, explaining in letters to Rome that the book was not intended to represent Church teachings but rather help readers move beyond a reflexive 'taboo morality' and think through sexual ethics in the context of justice, wisdom and love.  

Only two months ago the Vatican issued a stinging report saying the most American Catholic nuns promoted radical feminist ideas and sometimes challenged bishops….looks like ‘Sisters are doin’ it for Themselves’