Unprecedented: The Vatican to host an event dedicated to LGBT advocacy
Pope Francis and the LGBT flag against the backdrop of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Photo: gloria.tv
In 2025, as part of the Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Francis, the Vatican will host an event specifically dedicated to LGBT activists, reports the Italian publication Il Messaggero.
The event has caused internal disagreements within the Roman Catholic Church but has been approved by Pope Francis.
According to the published schedule, the so-called "LGBT Pilgrimage" will take place on September 5–6, 2025. It will begin with Vespers in the historic Jesuit church where the relics of Ignatius of Loyola are preserved.
The following day, participants will pass through the Holy Doors of St. Peter's Basilica, culminating in a Mass presided over by Bishop Francesco Savino.
The event was initiated by Jesuit priest Pino Piva, with support from Cardinal Matteo Zuppi and Archbishop Rino Fisichella. Despite resistance within the Church, the Superior General of the Jesuit Order, Father Arturo Sosa, described the initiative as "a good undertaking."
This event has already sparked controversy, as it is seen not merely as a gesture of inclusivity but by many as an open endorsement of LGBT ideology within the Church. Nevertheless, the event was approved by Pope Francis.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a Mass for homosexuals was held in the Roman Catholic Cathedral in New York.
Read also
OCU parishioners in Kosmach sue each other over December 25 service
An OCU parish in Ivano-Frankivsk Region held no services either on December 25 or on January 7.
Analyst likens Bankova’s case against UOC to Stalin-era repression
Bondarenko said the way the authorities justify pressure on the Church may amount to the rhetoric of the totalitarian era.
Christmas caroling and festive concerts held across UOC eparchies
During the January celebration of the Nativity of Christ, UOC communities across the country sing carols, hold concerts, and organize charitable initiatives.
Primate: God’s law is written in every human heart
During a sermon in Boryspil, His Beatitude reminded the faithful of the meaning of Christmas and the need to live according to God’s commandments.
Media: Transgender-identified inmates sexually assault women in US prisons
Female inmates, who have been interviewed extensively as part of the research on the impact of gender ideology in custodial settings, describe the facility as “a haven for sexual predators who pretend to be transgender.”
Guardian: Bible sales in Britain hit new highs in 2025
Specialists are noting growing interest in Christian texts amid social change and a rethinking of faith’s role in contemporary society.