VATICAN CITY — In a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, past remarks made by Pope Leo XIV, during his time as the Augustinian prior general in Chicago, are once again attracting attention. Back in 2012, he expressed critical views regarding the “homosexual lifestyle” and highlighted the role of mainstream media in advocating for the acceptance of same-sex relationships, which he felt conflicted with Catholic teachings.
As these 2012 comments surfaced following the election of U.S. Cardinal Robert Prevost to replace Pope Francis, the newly elected pope adopted the name Leo XIV. Francis DeBernardo, representing the U.S. group New Ways Ministry that champions increased inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals within the church community, deemed the remarks “disappointing.” He voiced hope that over the past 13 years, particularly during the progressive papacy of Pope Francis, Leo XIV’s views on LGBTQ+ issues have evolved. “We will observe cautiously to see if such a shift has indeed occurred,” said DeBernardo in a statement.
In a 2012 video, Prevost addressed the Synod of Bishops, discussing how popular TV series and movies sway public opinion. “Western mass media is highly effective at fostering sympathy for practices contradicting the gospel, such as abortion, homosexuality, and euthanasia,” Prevost remarked. He particularly noted the sympathetic portrayal of alternative families with same-sex partners and adopted children in contemporary television and cinema.
Upon becoming a cardinal in 2023, Prevost was questioned by Catholic News Service regarding any change in his stance. He acknowledged Pope Francis’ vision for a more welcoming church but affirmed that the doctrine remained unchanged. “While some seek broader changes, our focus is on being more welcoming and open,” Prevost stated, reiterating that everyone is welcome in the church.
In his initial address as pope, Leo XIV emphasized building bridges and God’s universal love. The Rev. James Martin, an American Jesuit and founder of an LGBTQ+ outreach ministry, lauded Prevost’s election as a “brilliant” decision. “He is humble and sincere. He brings invaluable experience from his work with the impoverished in Peru and his time in the Vatican,” Martin noted, praising Prevost’s genuine humility and respectful demeanor.
Under Francis, the Church exhibited a gradual openness to LGBTQ+ individuals, although the core doctrine remained unchanged. Same-sex marriage continued to be rejected and sexual relations between same-sex partners were deemed “intrinsically disordered.”
The LGBTQ advocacy group GLAAD urged the new pope to “build on the progress” spearheaded by his predecessor. “The Roman Catholic Church stands on the cusp of a hopeful, inclusive era. Under Pope Leo XIV’s guidance, there is a profound opportunity to inspire countless individuals and deepen the embrace of LGBTQ individuals with compassion and dignity,” affirmed GLAAD president Sarah Kate Ellis.