Korea.net / Korean Culture and Information Service (Jeon Han) | CC BY-SA 2.0
By Lauren Means
Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pontiff, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death was attributed to a stroke followed by irreversible heart failure, as confirmed by the Vatican. Throughout his 12-year papacy, Francis was known for his humility, advocacy for the marginalized, and efforts to reform the Catholic Church. However, his approach to LGBTQ+ issues was marked by both progressive gestures and notable limitations.
A Papacy of Firsts and Contradictions
Elected in 2013, Pope Francis quickly garnered attention for his compassionate tone. His now-famous remark, “If they accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them?” regarding gay priests signaled a departure from previous papal rhetoric. This statement was a symbol of hope for many LGBTQ+ Catholics seeking acceptance within the Church.
In 2024, the Vatican, under Francis’s leadership, issued a landmark document allowing the blessing of same-sex couples, a move that faced substantial conservative backlash. Additionally, Francis openly opposed the criminalization of homosexuality, emphasizing that “the criminalisation of homosexuality is a problem that cannot be ignored”.
Missed Opportunities and Ongoing Challenges
Despite these progressive steps, critics argue that Pope Francis’s actions often fell short of meaningful change. The 2018 Synod on Young People, for instance, was criticized for failing to address the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, with advocacy groups labeling it a “missed opportunity”.
Moreover, Francis maintained traditional views on gender, expressing concerns about “gender ideology” and its impact on society. Such statements have been perceived as undermining efforts toward greater inclusivity and understanding of gender diversity within the Church.
A Legacy of Ambiguity
Pope Francis’s tenure was characterized by a delicate balancing act between progressive outreach and adherence to traditional doctrine. While he made significant strides in opening dialogue and showing compassion toward LGBTQ+ individuals, his reluctance to enact substantial doctrinal changes left many advocates yearning for more decisive action.
As the Catholic Church enters a period of mourning and reflection, the LGBTQ+ community continues to grapple with the complexities of Francis’s legacy—a blend of hope, disappointment, and the enduring quest for genuine inclusion.
