The Vatican has made history by welcoming its first officially recognised LGBTQ+ Catholic pilgrimage. The event took place during the Roman Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, drawing more than 1,400 pilgrims from 20 countries.
A Historic Moment in Rome
Pilgrims dressed in rainbow attire and carried crosses as they joined prayer vigils, Masses, and symbolic processions. On Saturday, they walked through the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica. The sacred door opens only once every 25 years during Jubilee celebrations, symbolising reconciliation and renewal.
Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, said the event was deeply meaningful.
“Not only are LGBTQ people marching and walking to say that they’re part of the Church, but official Church institutions are welcoming them and helping them to tell their stories,” he noted.
Pope Leo XIV and the Church’s Direction
The pilgrimage comes under Pope Leo XIV, who was elected in May. So far, the American pontiff has not publicly addressed LGBTQ+ issues or commented on his predecessor’s 2023 decree.
That decree, issued by Pope Francis, allowed priests to bless same-sex couples under certain conditions. While the Vatican stressed that marriage remains between a man and a woman, the move was a landmark shift. It also stirred strong debate, especially among conservative Catholic groups in Africa.
A Step Toward Inclusion
Pope Francis had previously spoken about inclusion, saying in 2020:
“Homosexual people have a right to be in a family. They are children of God… nobody should be thrown out or made miserable over it.”
For many pilgrims, being welcomed into St Peter’s Basilica was a sign of progress. It offered spiritual affirmation and hope that the Catholic Church is slowly opening space for LGBTQ+ voices in its global community.
With more than 32 million people expected in Rome for Jubilee celebrations, this recognition marks a new chapter in the Church’s dialogue with LGBTQ+ believers.
