Pope Francis recently met with leadership from the U.S. LGBT organization New Ways Ministry, a group previously criticized by both the U.S. Bishops’ Conference and the Vatican's doctrinal office for its stance on sexual morality within the Catholic community. The meeting took place at the Pope's residence, though the specific topic of discussion remains undisclosed.
In an October 17 statement, New Ways Ministry expressed gratitude to the Holy Father for his openness to bless same-sex unions and for his opposition to the criminalization of LGBTQ+ individuals in civil society. The organization was founded in 1977 in the Archdiocese of Washington but faced restrictions on pastoral work with homosexual persons following an investigation into their activities.
While media outlets reported that Pope Francis was open to blessing same-sex couples following the publication of the statement, the Holy Father had affirmed in 2021 that the Church lacks the authority to do so. Theological experts also suggest that the Pope's focus may be on individuals in same-sex relationships rather than the blessing of those unions.
