Pope Leo received Jesuit Father James Martin in a private audience at the Apostolic Palace. Father Martin is among the most active clergy in ministry to the LGBT community, which is set to celebrate its Jubilee this week.
Following the meeting with Pope Leo XIV, Father Martin posted on social media: “Dear friends: I was honored and grateful to meet the Holy Father this morning. I was moved to hear the same message I have received from him regarding LGBTQ Catholics—one of openness and welcome. I found Pope Leo to be serene, joyful, and encouraging. For me, it was a deeply consoling meeting. Pray for the Holy Father!”