VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV met with Rev. James Martin, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church, on Monday. This meeting signals a commitment to continue the legacy of acceptance established by Pope Francis. Martin, a Jesuit author and editor based in New York, reported that Leo expressed his intention to uphold Francis’ policies regarding LGBTQ+ individuals.

“I heard the same message from Pope Leo that I heard from Pope Francis, which is the desire to welcome all people, including LGBTQ people,” Martin said after the audience. He described the meeting as “wonderful,” “consoling,” and “encouraging.”

The Vatican officially announced the meeting, which lasted about half an hour, indicating Leo's desire for transparency. This encounter occurred just days before a planned Holy Year pilgrimage for LGBTQ+ Catholics to the Vatican, further emphasizing the church's welcoming stance.

Pope Francis, who served from 2013 to 2025, was known for his efforts to create a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ Catholics. His notable remarks, such as “Who am I to judge?” regarding a gay priest, and his decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples, marked a significant shift in the church's approach.

Leo’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues had been uncertain prior to his election in May. In 2012, as Rev. Robert Prevost, he criticized the “homosexual lifestyle” and the media's role in promoting acceptance of same-sex relationships. However, after becoming a cardinal in 2023, he acknowledged the need for a more inclusive church, stating that Francis “made it very clear that he doesn’t want people to be excluded simply on the basis of choices that they make.”

Despite this, Leo emphasized that church doctrine remains unchanged. “But we are looking to be more welcoming and more open and to say all people are welcome in the church,” he added.

The news of Leo's meeting with Martin has drawn mixed reactions. Some conservative voices, who had hoped for a less accepting approach, expressed disappointment. Taylor Marshall, a Catholic podcaster, shared the official Vatican photo of the meeting without comment. John-Henry Weston, co-founder of a conservative news site, referred to the meeting as a “nightmare scenario.”

Conversely, Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, which advocates for LGBTQ+ Catholics, viewed the meeting as a positive step. He stated it was “a strong indication that Leo affirms Pope Francis’ welcoming model.”

Martin, who has worked closely with Prevost, expressed confidence in Leo’s openness. “It’s wonderful to hear this continuation,” he said. He noted that Leo's priorities include promoting peace and unity, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Myanmar.

Martin also highlighted Leo’s reminder that the church is for “todos, todos, todos,” quoting Francis’ message of inclusivity. Martin is involved with Outreach, a ministry that promotes LGBTQ+ acceptance, which will participate in a significant pilgrimage this weekend organized by the Italian LGBTQ+ Catholic group, Jonathan’s Tent.

The pilgrimage, which is expected to draw around 1,200 participants, will include a Mass at a Jesuit church in Rome, celebrated by a high-ranking member of the Italian bishops' conference. While the pilgrimage is not officially sponsored by the Vatican, it is listed on the Vatican’s calendar of Holy Year events, which officials say is for logistical purposes and does not imply endorsement.

Martin concluded that the meeting and the upcoming pilgrimage reflect the church's commitment to reaching out to marginalized communities, stating, “If people were happy with Pope Francis’ approach to LGBTQ Catholics, they’re going to be happy with Pope Leo’s approach.”