In brief
In a landmark moment for inclusivity, 1,400 LGBTQ+ Catholics from 20 countries gathered at the Vatican for the inaugural LGBTQ+ pilgrimage as part of the Jubilee Year. This historic event included prayer vigils and masses, although attendees missed a private audience with the new Pope. The pilgrimage symbolizes a step towards reconciliation and acceptance within the Church, echoing the progressive sentiments of Pope Francis' 2023 decree allowing priests to bless same-sex couples, a move that ignited controversy among conservative factions.
Some 1,400 Catholics donning rainbow attire and carrying crosses are taking part in the first officially recognised LGBTQ+ pilgrimage to Rome as part of the Vatican's Jubilee Year.
Coming from 20 countries, pilgrims are attending prayer vigils, masses and other activities this weekend - though they will not have a private audience with Pope Leo XIV.
His predecessor Pope Francis, who died in April, did not change the Roman Catholic Church doctrine regarding the LGBTQ+ community - but made overtures in a decree in 2023.
These included allowing priests to bless same-sex couples - a move that angered conservatives Catholics, notably in Africa.
On Saturday, members from the LGBTQ+ community entered St Peter's Basilica though its Holy Door - a procession that symbolises reconciliation.
The door only opens once in 25 years to mark the Roman Catholic Church's jubilee years.
Not only are LGBTQ people marching and walking to say that they're part of the Church, but official Church institutions are welcoming them and helping them to tell their stories, said Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, an organization advocating for LGBTQ rights within the Catholic Church.
Some 32 million pilgrims are expected to descend on the Vatican this year for the Jubilee celebrations.
Pope Leo XIV, who was elected in May, has yet to address the LGBTQ+ community publicly and has not commented on his predecessor's 2023 decree, which allowed blessings for same-sex couples under specific circumstances.
