Where Pope Leo XIV Stands on Key Church Issues: Abuse, Climate, Women & LGBTQ+
Pope Leo XIV, known as a calm and balanced leader, has taken over the Catholic Church at a time of major challenges. From sexual abuse and climate change to poverty, LGBTQ+ rights, and women's role in the Church — here’s where he stands on these key topics.
11:58 AM May 10, 2025 IST
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Aakash Khuman
Although he is expected to follow Pope Francis in many respects, Leo is likely to do so in a more emollient manner. Photograph: Vatican Media Handout/EPA
Soon after being elected as the 267th Pope Leo XIV was described as someone who can bring people together. Many believe he will follow Pope Francis’s path, but in a more polite and less controversial way. On the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he wore the full traditional papal outfit, showing a more formal style than Francis.
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In his first speech, he said the Church must "build bridges" and stay united. However, his past criticism of Donald Trump has upset some conservative Catholics in the US. He is expected to use his calm nature to manage the different groups within the global Church.
Focus on Climate, Poverty, and Peace
Pope Leo XIV cares deeply about social justice and helping the poor, just like Pope Francis. He has spoken against strict immigration rules and wants action on climate change. He believes Church leaders should live humbly and stay close to the people.
He once said that humans should not act like rulers over nature but should care for it responsibly. He also supports peace and wants the Church to help end wars in places like Ukraine and Gaza.
Sexual Abuse: A Tough Challenge Ahead
Pope Leo faces criticism over how he handled sexual abuse cases in Peru before becoming pope. Survivors' groups say he didn’t do enough to reveal or punish abusive priests. While some supporters defend his actions, saying he followed proper procedures, survivors are watching closely to see if he brings real change.
He now has the difficult task of gaining the trust of victims and their families.
LGBTQ Views: Open Yet Unclear
Pope Leo has stayed quiet on LGBTQ issues recently, but in the past, he showed concern about changing values in Western culture. He has neither clearly supported nor opposed blessings for same-sex couples, noting that different countries have different views on this.
Some LGBTQ groups believe he is open-minded but say his stance is still unclear.
Women in the Church: No to Ordination, But Open to Contributions
Pope Leo does not support ordaining women as priests, saying it’s against Church tradition. However, he believes women have an important role to play in Church life. He has already appointed women to help him in leadership decisions, which shows he values their contributions.
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