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Historic Audience Set Between Pope Leo XIV and LGBTQ+ Catholic Reformists
In a groundbreaking event scheduled for October 24–26, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will officially receive a delegation from the progressive Catholic reform group “We Are Church” at the Vatican. This unprecedented meeting, organized as part of the Holy Year 2025 celebrations and the Jubilee for Synodal Teams and Participatory Structures, marks the first time a reigning pope has met with this reformist organization. The audience represents a significant step forward in fostering dialogue between the Vatican and groups advocating for a more inclusive Church.
A Major Shift Toward Dialogue With Reform Movements
Founded in 1995, “We Are Church” has long been a vocal proponent of Church renewal. The movement supports reforms such as the ordination of women, the full acceptance of same-sex couples, and a stronger institutional response to sexual abuse within the Church. Operating in over 30 countries, the group has at times challenged traditional Church authority. This long-anticipated audience with Pope Leo XIV is widely viewed as a turning point—one that lends greater legitimacy to reform voices within Catholicism.
Balancing Tradition with Openness to Change
As the first American pontiff, elected in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV has maintained the Church’s traditional doctrine on marriage, defining it as a stable union between a man and a woman. However, he also supports continued blessings for same-sex couples, in line with the direction initiated by Pope Francis. Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, head of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, recently confirmed that such blessings remain permitted under Leo XIV’s leadership, signaling continuity alongside careful evolution.
A Promising Symbol of Inclusion During the Holy Year
The delegation’s visit will include a symbolic passage through the Holy Door—a powerful ritual during the Holy Year—highlighting the spirit of hope and renewal. For Christian Weisner, co-founder of “We Are Church,” the invitation from the Vatican serves as a “sign of hope” for meaningful change and acknowledges decades of advocacy for a Church that welcomes all believers.
Could This Be a Catalyst for a More Welcoming Church?
This event may signal a broader shift in the Vatican’s relationship with reform-minded Catholic communities, particularly those championing LGBTQ+ inclusion. It could also open the door to wider discussions on complex issues such as sexuality, gender identity, and the evolving role of women in the Church. As the Church continues its synodal path, this historic audience might serve as a foundational step toward a more open and inclusive Catholic future.
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