ROME — Pope Francis has chosen Rev. James Martin, an American Jesuit known for his advocacy of LGBTQ inclusion in the Catholic Church, to participate in a significant Vatican gathering later this year. The meeting, called a synod, aims to address the concerns and aspirations of Catholics worldwide.
The selection of participants for the synod comes after an unprecedented survey of Catholics, revealing a desire for concrete measures promoting women to decision-making roles and a more inclusive approach towards the LGBTQ+ community within the church.
While the Catholic Church officially considers sexual acts outside heterosexual marriage as sinful, Pope Francis has consistently emphasized outreach to LGBTQ individuals throughout his papacy. His recent clarification on homosexuality, stating that “being homosexual is not a crime,” reflects his commitment to greater understanding.
In a move towards reform, Pope Francis has granted voting rights to women at the upcoming synod, demonstrating his broader goal of empowering women and involving laypeople in church affairs. Sheila Leocádia Pires, an African journalist appointed as the secretary of the information commission at the synod, praised the pope’s attention to women’s roles, particularly in Africa.
The synod will continue into 2024, with a second phase focusing on evaluating the proposals put forth by delegates. Subsequently, Pope Francis is expected to issue a document addressing the topics discussed during the synod.
Overall, the pope’s inclusion of Rev. James Martin and his ongoing efforts to address diverse concerns within the Catholic Church indicate a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and progressive institution.