Pope Leo XIV has reaffirmed that the Catholic Church will not alter its teachings on sexuality and marriage, dismissing any immediate prospect of change regarding LGBTQ+ rights. The Pontiff discussed these views in a new biography, “Pope Leo XIV – The Biography”, based on a series of interviews with Vaticanist Elise Ann Allen at Castel Gandolfo.
“It seems very unlikely, at least in the near future, that the doctrine of the Church will change its teachings on sexuality and marriage,” Pope Leo XIV stated.
The Pope explained that the issue remains highly polarising within the Church and that his focus is on fostering attitude change rather than altering Church doctrine. “Everyone is invited in as a son or daughter of God, but not as an expression of a specific identity,” he said, echoing sentiments previously expressed by Pope Francis.
He added that individuals will always be welcomed and received by priests, including in confession, regardless of their life choices or personal struggles, while the Church’s teachings will remain unchanged.
Other topics discussed in the biography include global inequalities and the US presidency of Donald Trump. The Pontiff highlighted the importance of Church leadership addressing national political issues seriously, and praised US bishops for supporting Pope Francis’ guidance on the treatment of migrants.
Pope Leo XIV also warned of future social and technological challenges, citing automation, artificial intelligence, and employment as urgent areas of concern. “If we automate the planet and only a few can live well, leaving most just surviving, an enormous problem is looming on the horizon,” he said.
