Church reforms temporarily halted by Pope Leo's decree
In the heart of Vatican City, Pope Leo XIV, the current pontiff who was elected four months ago, resides and carries out his duties. Living in the historic city state, he meets regularly with world leaders, maintaining the Vatican's long-standing role as a global diplomatic player.
Pope Leo XIV, unlike his predecessor Pope Francis, has a different tone. While Francis attempted to modernize the Church, Leo XIV is more focused on maintaining traditional values. He emphasized his support for the traditional family, defined as father, mother, and children.
However, Leo XIV acknowledges the desire for change among the people. In an interview, he admitted that people want the Church's doctrine and attitudes to evolve. Yet, he believes that changing attitudes is necessary before considering changes to Church doctrine.
One of the most contentious issues in recent years has been the Church's stance on LGBTQ+ Catholics. During a pilgrimage of LGBTQ+ Catholics to the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV did not publicly address them. Instead, he stated that issues dealing with the LGBTQ questions are highly polarizing and is trying not to promote further polarization in the Church.
Despite this, Pope Leo XIV has shown a willingness to listen. He received American priest James Martin, an advocate for homosexual Catholics, in a private audience. However, he does not invite people based on their identity but shares Francis's desire to welcome everyone into the Church.
The question of women deacons is another topic of discussion. Pope Leo XIV does not currently have an intention of changing the Church's teaching on women deacons, but he is willing to continue listening to people on the topic.
Another critical issue that Pope Leo XIV addresses is the ever-growing income divide. He expressed concern about the potential of Elon Musk becoming the world's first trillionaire, citing it as a problematic trend. He believes that if wealth is the only thing that has value, humanity is in big trouble.
Pope Leo XIV also addressed the issue of sexual abuse within the Church. He stated that accused priests are innocent until proven guilty and must be protected. However, he considers the issue of sexual abuse of children by priests a real crisis, but it is not the main focus of his papacy.
The interview with Pope Leo XIV was conducted by Elise Ann Allen, a US journalist, and the book 'Pope Leo XIV: Global Citizen, Missionary of the 21st Century' was published by AFP in 2025.
In a world where change is constant, Pope Leo XIV is navigating the complexities of the Church, balancing tradition with the need for evolution. His approach is unique, and only time will tell how his papacy will shape the future of the Catholic Church.
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