Vatican to Hold Historic First LGBTQIA+ Pilgrimage Event

Vatican Hosts Historic LGBTQIA+ Pilgrimage for Jubilee Year

A Groundbreaking First for the Catholic Church

In an unprecedented move, the Catholic Church will welcome an LGBTQIA+ pilgrimage to the Vatican during the 2025 Jubilee Year. The two-day event, set for September 5 and 6, is organized by the Italian group La Tenda di Gionata in collaboration with other international associations. While listed discreetly in the Vatican’s official Jubilee calendar as a “pilgrimage of the association Tenda di Gionata and other associations,” the event is expected to draw around 1,300 participants—most of them from Italy.

The gathering will feature prayer sessions, open forums, a Mass at the Church of the Gesù, and a solemn procession to St. Peter’s Basilica, underscoring its deeply spiritual character.

Papal Endorsement and Posthumous Support

According to Il Messaggero, Pope Francis approved the pilgrimage in late 2024, just months before his death on April 21, 2025. After a brief period of uncertainty, during which the event disappeared from the official schedule, it was later reinstated—a sign that institutional support remains, even amid ongoing debates within Church leadership.

Promoting Inclusion, Not Protest

Organizers emphasize that this is not a political protest but a spiritual journey rooted in faith and the hope for greater visibility. “It’s a slow and careful process, but the goal remains the same—visibility and recognition. For us, that’s a significant step forward,” said Cyril de Compiègne, president of the French LGBTQ+ Christian group D&J Arc-en-ciel.

Amid online rumors suggesting participants might march with rainbow crosses, Alessandro Previti of La Tenda di Gionata clarified the group’s intentions. The multicolored cross mentioned belongs to a separate pilgrimage currently traveling across Italy. “We’ll carry traditional wooden crucifixes provided by the Vatican,” said Previti. “Some individuals may choose to wear rainbow T-shirts, but our purpose is clear: we are pilgrims like anyone else.”

A Moment of Faith, Not a Pride March

Designed as a moment of prayer and spiritual connection, the initiative presents a different image than the typical pride event. “This is not a protest or parade,” said Claire Bévierre, president of Reconnaissance, a group supporting families of LGBTQ+ individuals. “It’s a sacred journey, highlighting the universal openness of the Church. Just as we’ve had pilgrimages for youth, elders, or professionals, this one is for LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones.”

New Pontiff Signals Gentle Continuity

Though Pope Leo XIV has not yet made public statements on LGBTQ+ matters, signs of continuity with Pope Francis’s inclusive tone are emerging. The newly elected pontiff recently met privately with American Jesuit priest Father James Martin, a well-known advocate for LGBTQ+ Catholics.

“It was a sincere and heartfelt encounter,” Father Martin shared with Le Monde. “While Pope Leo XIV hasn’t spoken publicly on the topic, he made it clear that he intends to follow the spirit of openness that Pope Francis embodied.” So far, however, no formal changes or policies have been announced under the new papacy.

A Church Still Reckoning with Its Past

The legacy of Pope Francis continues to shape internal debates within the Church. His 2023 document Fiducia supplicans, which allowed blessings for couples in “irregular” situations—including same-sex couples—marked a milestone, but also deepened existing tensions. Resistance, particularly from African bishops, prompted the Vatican to allow local discretion in implementing the policy.

In France, the response was cautious. While recognizing the document, most bishops emphasized blessings for individuals rather than couples, reflecting an ongoing struggle to balance doctrine with evolving pastoral needs.

Signs of Progress Amid Resistance

Despite hesitations, some Church insiders believe that meaningful progress is unfolding. “Of course we hope change will come more quickly, but these early steps matter,” said Alessandro Previti.

Claire Bévierre echoed that optimism by highlighting grassroots efforts. “Transformation doesn’t only come from the top down. We’re building something from within the Church,” she said. Today, nearly 60% of French dioceses offer dedicated pastoral services for LGBTQ+ individuals and families—a tangible marker of growing inclusion and lasting change.