Pope Leo XIV has met with one of the most prominent advocates for greater LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church. The Rev. James Martin says Leo told him Monday that he intended to continue Pope Francis’ policy of LGBTQ+ acceptance in the church and encouraged him to keep up his advocacy. The discussion with the New York-based Jesuit author and editor lasted about a half-hour. The meeting was officially announced by the Vatican in a sign that Leo wanted it made public. The audience came just days before a planned Holy Year pilgrimage of LGBTQ+ Catholics to the Vatican in a sign of continued welcome in this new pontificate.
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The Pride Picnic featured food, games, and speakers who shared personal stories. Organizers said the goal was to create a safe, welcoming space, especially at a time when members of the LGBTQ+ community are feeling under attack.