For the first time in history, around 1,400 LGBTQ+ Catholics from 20 different countries have participated in an official Vatican-recognized pilgrimage as part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year 2025.
Dressed in rainbow colors and carrying crosses, pilgrims attended prayer vigils, Mass, and spiritual activities this weekend in Rome.
One of the most symbolic moments came when members of the LGBTQ+ community walked through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica – a sacred door opened only once every 25 years during Jubilee years, symbolizing reconciliation and mercy.
“Not only are LGBTQ people walking to show they are part of the Church, but official Church institutions are welcoming them and helping ensure their story is heard,” said Francis DeBernardo, director of the U.S.-based organization New Ways Ministry, in an interview with National Catholic Reporter.
This American group has long worked to support LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Catholic Church.
The late Pope Francis, who passed away in April, did not change Church doctrine on LGBTQ+ issues but made a landmark decision in 2023 by allowing priests to bless same-sex couples. The move was celebrated by progressives but sparked backlash in conservative circles, especially in Africa.
Back in 2020, Pope Francis had also emphasized:
“Homosexual people have the right to be part of a family… They are children of God and no one should exclude them or make them suffer.”
However, the Vatican has maintained that such blessings should not resemble marriage rites, stressing that sacramental marriage remains between a man and a woman.
The newly elected Pope Leo XIV, chosen in May 2025, has not yet issued a statement on the LGBTQ+ community or his predecessor’s decree.
The Jubilee Year 2025 is expected to bring over 32 million pilgrims to the Vatican, with this LGBTQ+ pilgrimage marking a historic turning point in the relationship between the Catholic Church and LGBTQ+ faithful.
