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Historic Vatican Meeting Signals Continuity with Francis's Approach
Pope Leo XIV has made a significant gesture toward the Catholic LGBT community by receiving Father James Martin, SJ, in a private audience at the Apostolic Palace. The meeting, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, occurred just days before a major pilgrimage of LGBT Catholics to Rome for the Holy Year celebrations.
A Message of Welcome and Continuity
Father Martin, a prominent American Jesuit priest known for his ministry to LGBT Catholics, described the encounter as "profoundly grateful" and "very comforting and encouraging." He revealed that Pope Leo conveyed the same message of welcome to LGBT people that characterized his predecessor Pope Francis's approach.
"I received from Pope Leo the same message about welcoming LGBT people as from Pope Francis," Martin stated to Reuters after the meeting. This signals that the first American pope intends to continue the more inclusive trajectory established by the Argentine pontiff.
Timing and Significance
The audience's timing is particularly noteworthy, occurring immediately before the September 5-6 pilgrimage when Catholic LGBT groups from around the world will gather in Rome. These events are part of the Holy Year celebrations, with participants planning a procession to St. Peter's Basilica.
Vatican correspondent Andrea Vreede noted: "That Pope Leo XIV officially receives Father James Martin in private audience just before the LGBT pilgrimage of the Holy Year is a powerful signal. While what exactly was discussed remains unclear, Martin was allowed to publish photos on X and write glowingly about Leo's intention to continue the path taken by Pope Francis."
Background and Context
Father James Martin has been a controversial figure within Catholic circles since publishing his 2017 book "Building a Bridge," which addressed how Catholic leaders should engage with the homosexual community. He has faced strong criticism from conservative Catholics while receiving support from more progressive elements, including Pope Francis himself.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is the first American pope and the first born after World War II. His election in 2025 surprised many Vatican observers, as the prospect of a U.S. pope had been considered unlikely given America's superpower status. The 70-year-old pontiff chose the name Leo XIV in honor of Pope Leo XIII, who developed modern Catholic social teaching during the Second Industrial Revolution.
Reactions and Implications
The meeting has already drawn strong reactions from conservative and traditionalist circles within the Church. However, it appears that Pope Leo XIV has quietly demonstrated where he stands: continuing the benevolent and open attitude of his predecessor toward the LGBT community.
This development suggests that despite initial observations characterizing Pope Leo as "shy" or cautious during his first 100 days, he is now beginning to define his papacy's direction on sensitive social issues.
