The recent passing of Pope Francis has sparked a worldwide discussion about his legacy, with some discussions focusing on LGBTQ issues. His leadership marked a significant change in tone for the Catholic Church.
Why Pope Francis matters to the LGBTQ community
Pope Francis was crucial to the LGBTQ community because of his efforts to shift the catholic church’s tone towards greater inclusivity and acceptance. As he famously had stated, “If they [gay priests] accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them? They shouldn’t be marginalized. The tendency [same-sex attraction] is not the problem… they’re our brothers.” This quote caused a dramatic shift towards same-sex attraction in the Catholic Church, allowing acceptance instead of discrimination.
With Pope Francis’ passing, there is widespread speculation about the direction the next pope might take regarding LGBTQ issues. The election of a new pope presents both opportunities and challenges. Some advocates fear that a successor could revert to more traditional teachings, potentially undermining the progress made during Francis’ time as the pope. LGBTQ Catholics fear that if the future pope decides to revert to traditional ways of the Catholic Church, increased discrimination will occur within Catholic LGBTQ members and allies.
*The potential future direction of the new pope may affect catholic institutions such as schools and charities, which play a vital role in supporting LGBTQ youth and families. A change in policy and tone can dismiss resources and community support for LGBTQ Catholics, further complicating the struggle for acceptance.
The Aftermath of Francis’ death is not only about immediate concerns regarding future leadership changes, but it also reflects the ongoing struggle for acceptance within one of the world’s largest religious institutions. Advocates continue advocating for people to stay engaged with the inclusive approach that Pope Francis has led for years. They emphasize the importance of recognizing their voices and the experiences they had, which matter in shaping the church. 
