Pontiff Held Private Audience With Advocate Rev. James Martin

Pope Leo XIV gave his clearest indication yet that he intends to continue Pope Francis’ legacy of outreach to LGBTQ Catholics, meeting privately Monday with U.S. Jesuit priest and author the Reverend James Martin.

The 30-minute audience, held in the apostolic palace, was part of the new pontiff’s official schedule, which also included meetings with two cardinals and several bishops. Martin, who leads a ministry to LGBTQ Catholics and has often drawn criticism from conservative church members, said the pope confirmed his desire to welcome LGBTQ parishioners during the Church’s 2025 Holy Year.

Francis, who died earlier this year, made headlines in 2013 by refusing to condemn a gay priest and later allowing priests to bless same

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