Pope Francis met with LGBTQ activists, including a transgender man, a sister who works with LGBTQ people, and a doctor providing gender-affirming care. The meeting was not on the official agenda and comes after the Vatican rejected gender-affirming care, sparking criticism from LGBTQ groups. The activists urged the church to engage with transgender individuals when making policies. The pope listened empathetically and emphasized the well-being of the person. While Francis has taken a more welcoming approach to the LGBTQ community, he has also made derogatory remarks in the past. The meeting was organized by New Ways Ministry, an advocacy group for LGBTQ Catholics, and signals progress in the church’s stance on transgender issues. Sister Jeannine Gramick, the group’s co-founder, emphasized the importance of listening to transgender people’s experiences. This encounter shows that the church is evolving and moving towards a more inclusive stance. The Vatican did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the meeting. The pope’s willingness to engage with LGBTQ activists and his focus on the well-being of individuals indicate a shift in the Catholic Church’s approach to transgender issues.
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