Historic Inclusion of LGBT+ Groups in Jubilee Celebrations
For the first time ever, LGBT+ Christian organizations and their allies were officially granted access to pass through the Holy Door of the Jubilee at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, on September 6 and 7. This momentous occasion, part of the Holy Year held every 25 years, represents a significant milestone in the Catholic Church’s evolving approach toward LGBTQ+ individuals. While Church doctrine remains unchanged, this inclusive gesture signals a monumental shift in pastoral tone and attitude, reflecting a growing openness in how the Church engages with diverse communities.
Pope Francis’ Legacy of Inclusion Continues
This development builds on the inclusive vision introduced by Pope Francis in 2013, when he famously asked, “If someone is gay and is seeking the Lord and has goodwill, who am I to judge?” This marked a striking departure from his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI’s labeling of homosexuality as an “objectively disordered condition.” In contrast, Francis characterized homosexuality as “not a crime, but a human condition.” His words helped establish a more accepting and compassionate narrative within the Church, opening the door to marginalized believers.
Fiducia Supplicans: Signaling Compassion in Pastoral Practice
In 2023, the Vatican released the declaration Fiducia Supplicans, authorizing blessings for couples in “irregular situations,” including divorced and remarried individuals, and same-sex couples. Though the statement does not constitute doctrinal change, it reflects a strong emphasis on mercy and spiritual accompaniment over rigid rule enforcement. This sentiment echoes Pope Francis’ 2022 letter to Father James Martin, where he wrote, “The Church is a mother and welcomes all her children.” The declaration embodies a pastoral response focused on inclusion, dignity, and shared faith.
Rediscovering Early Church Traditions of Acceptance
Scholars point out that this inclusive direction resonates with the practices of early Christianity. Historian John Boswell documented how the early Church recognized “spiritual bonds” between individuals of the same sex, valuing these relationships as sacred. Yet by the 14th century, Church attitudes had hardened, equating homosexuality with heresy. Maurice Lever noted how institutional power contributed to reinforcing this stigma over time. Today’s developments can be seen as a re-engagement with the Church’s more compassionate historical roots.
Pope Leo XIV Strengthens the Call for Inclusion
Pope Leo XIV, successor to Pope Francis, is continuing this path of reconciliation and acceptance. In a meeting on September 1 with Father James Martin, he reaffirmed his dedication to making the Church a place for everyone. While upholding traditional views on marriage, he expressed openness to blessing same-sex couples, stating his vision to welcome “everyone, everyone, everyone.” This pastoral outlook aligns closely with theologian James Alison’s call for a Church rooted in healing, compassion, and full inclusion of LGBT+ individuals within the body of faith.
Dialogue Over Judgment: A Changing Pastoral Landscape
As early as 2015, the German Bishops’ Conference urged a more empathetic approach to those whose lives don’t conform to formal Church teachings. Their report emphasized rejecting moral condemnation in favor of honest, open dialogue. During the Jubilee Mass for LGBT+ pilgrims, Monsignor Francesco Savino, vice-president of the Italian Episcopal Conference, declared, “It’s time to restore dignity to all, particularly to those from whom it has been withheld.” His message captures the spirit of the Holy Year: a transformative opportunity for reconciliation centered on love, respect, and human dignity.
Embracing Inclusion While Upholding Doctrine
While the Catholic Church’s core teachings remain intact, its tone and pastoral priorities are evolving. This shift reflects a deeper commitment to engaging with the real-life experiences of believers, inspired by a Gospel-driven call to welcome all individuals. The Church’s renewed emphasis on inclusion, compassion, and healing signals a pastoral reorientation—one that fosters belonging without abandoning tradition.