LGBTQ advocate Fr. James Martin describes the meeting with Pope Leo XIV as enjoyable.

Pope Leo Continues Inclusive Approach Towards LGBTQ Community

Pope Leo seems to be following in the footsteps of his predecessor by promoting a more welcoming stance towards the LGBTQ community. This impression comes from supporters who gathered with Jesuit priests and clergy recently.

James Martin, a Jesuit priest and the founder of Outreach, the LGBTQ Catholic Ministry, expressed his thoughts after a meeting on Monday. He mentioned, “I heard the same message from Pope Leo as I did from Pope Francis. There’s a real desire to welcome everyone, including LGBTQ individuals.” He described the experience as “amazing”, providing comfort, encouragement, and even some fun.

Pope Leo XIV Inspires Young Catholics

The gathering saw over a million young Catholics come together for a moment of faith. Martin, who has met with Pope Francis several times, emphasized the continuity of the message from Leo to LGBTQ Catholics. Despite some backlash from conservative factions in the Church who have doubts about this inclusive message, various supporters have welcomed this shift as a positive sign.

In a social media post, Martin expressed gratitude for his recent audience with Pope Leo, stating, “The message I received was that Pope Leo continues to have the same openness Francis demonstrated toward LGBTQ Catholics. He seemed happy, relaxed, and calm. It was a joy to be with him!”

Pope’s Focus on Global Issues

While Pope Leo’s interactions suggest a commitment to LGBTQ issues, Martin acknowledged that current global issues, like the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, may take precedence for the Pope. He remarked, “LGBTQ issues are on his radar, but it seems there are other urgent matters right now. Handling LGBTQ topics may not progress as quickly as some hope—or as slowly as others fear.”

In 2023, before taking the papacy, Cardinal Robert Prebust—now Pope Leo—had expressed intentions for the Church to open up more. Following his election, earlier remarks he made in 2012 regarding a “gay lifestyle” drew renewed attention in the media.