Pope hints at surprise liberal stance on LGBT issues after meeting with prominent US advocate: ‘It was wonderful’
Reverend says meeting with Pope about LGBT inclusion was ‘very encouraging’
- Pope Leo XIV met with Reverend James Martin, a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion, at the Vatican.
- The meeting suggests Pope Leo will continue the legacy of Pope Francis in fostering a more welcoming Catholic Church for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Reverend Martin reported that Pope Leo expressed a 'desire to welcome all people, including LGBTQ people,' mirroring Pope Francis's stance.
- The Vatican publicly announced the half-hour meeting, which took place just days before an LGBTQ+ Catholic pilgrimage to Rome.
- Pope Francis previously distinguished his papacy by making the Church more inclusive for LGBTQ+ Catholics, notably by allowing priests to bless same-sex couples.