Pope Leo XIV signaled his intent to continue Pope Francis’s legacy of openness toward the LGBTQ community, according to American Jesuit priest James Martin, after a private 30-minute audience in the Vatican.
Martin, a key advocate for LGBTQ Catholics, said the pontiff emphasized inclusivity and synodality, underscoring the Church’s commitment to listening to all faithful.
During his 12-year papacy, Francis promoted a “Church open to all,” including allowing blessings for same-sex couples, though this drew backlash from conservatives.
Pope Leo XIV, who assumed the papacy in May, has not yet publicly addressed the issue but assured continuity in approach.
The meeting comes ahead of an official Jubilee pilgrimage of LGBTQ Catholics in Rome this week.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 3, 2025
