Pope Leo met on Monday with Rev. James Martin, a well-known U.S. priest who ministers to LGBTQ Catholics, in a private audience at the Vatican’s apostolic palace. Martin told Reuters that the pope’s message of welcome for LGBTQ individuals was “very consoling and very encouraging,” describing it as a clear continuation of Pope Francis’ legacy. The meeting, which lasted about 30 minutes, was part of Pope Leo’s official schedule and included additional appointments with cardinals and bishops. Martin, who has written extensively on how Catholic leaders should engage with LGBTQ people, said the pope’s emphasis was on ensuring that everyone feels included in the Church.

The encounter took place less than a week after a tragic attack at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, where a trans-identified male, Robert “Robin” Westman, opened fire during the first mass of the school year, killing two young students. The timing of Pope Leo’s meeting has drawn attention, with some noting its symbolic significance in light of heightened tensions surrounding gender and faith issues. By meeting with Martin, the pope reinforced the Vatican’s continued message of openness while also signaling the Church’s ongoing struggle to balance compassion with fidelity to its traditional teachings.

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SOURCE: Post Millennial