Tension in Rome as LGBT+ Pilgrimage Passes Through St.Peter’s Basilica
Vatican City – A procession of over 1,000 LGBT+ Catholics passed through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica this weekend,sparking both celebration and condemnation within the Catholic Church. The event, held under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV and reportedly approved by the late Pope Francis months before his death, marks a significant moment for LGBT+ inclusion within the Vatican, while simultaneously fueling debate over Church doctrine.
The pilgrimage drew participants from across the globe,including the United States,Italy,and Brazil,with groups like Dignityusa and Outreach represented alongside a delegation of transsexuals from Rome. The event underscores a growing tension within the Catholic Church regarding its relationship with the LGBT+ community, a dynamic shaped by Pope Francis’s evolving rhetoric and actions. While the Church’s official teaching on homosexuality remains unchanged, Francis repeatedly signaled a more welcoming stance, famously asking, “Who am I to judge?” in 2013 and later allowing priests to bless same-sex couples.
justin del Rosario, a participant in the procession, described the experience to the Associated Press as “epic, as if I was able to touch the hand of God,” carrying a crucifix through the threshold with his partner. The inclusion of the worship service on the Vatican calendar was framed by officials as a logistical matter, not an endorsement. “These are not sponsored activities. Once it is established that there is a place, we include the worship of the common calendar,” Vatican spokeswoman Nanese Palmucci told Reuters.
However,the move has drawn sharp criticism from conservative catholics. Catholic commentator Michael J. Matt posted photos from the Basilica on X, condemning the event as a “betrayal of the doctrine” and a reflection of “Pope Francis’ heritage.”
Pope Leo XIV recently met privately with Jesuit Father James Martin,who reported the Holy Father reiterated Francis’s welcoming message.The Vatican has not yet responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital regarding the weekend’s events. The pilgrimage is expected to further intensify the ongoing dialog – and division – within the Catholic Church concerning LGBT+ inclusion and the legacy of Pope francis.