Pope Leo said he would continue the most important reforms initiated by Pope Francis, including embracing the LGBT community within the Church, discussing the ordination of women and maintaining the agreement with China on the appointment of bishops. However, he stressed that he does not foresee major changes to the doctrine of the Catholic Church.
In his first official interview, published on Thursday, Pope Leo - who was elected in May as the first American pope in history - emphasized a more measured and reserved approach compared to his predecessor, avoiding strong statements on political and geopolitical issues.
Cautious approach to US policy and the Gaza crisis
Unlike Pope Francis, who did not hesitate to directly criticize President Donald Trump and Israel's actions in Gaza, Pope Leo was measured. He did not mention Trump by name in a negative context and refused to label Israeli actions as "genocide."
"I have no intention of getting involved in partisan politics," he said. "There are many important issues that deserve attention, but it would be impossible for the pope to intervene in every country individually."
However, Pope Leo expressed "deep concern" about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, acknowledging that the term "genocide" is being increasingly used, but added that the Holy See is not in a position to make such a statement at this stage.
He also said he has not yet spoken to President Trump, but discussed migration issues during a meeting with US Vice President JD Vance in May. "I spoke about human dignity as a fundamental value for every individual, regardless of their place of birth," he stressed.
Dealing with abuse and false accusations
In the wake of the crises that have shaken the Catholic Church over the years, Pope Leo reiterated his strong condemnation of sexual abuse by clergy and supported the victims, but at the same time expressed concern about the increase in cases of unfounded accusations against priests, which, according to him, could unjustly harm innocent figures within the Church.
The agreement with China will continue
Commenting on the agreement reached by Pope Francis with Chinese authorities in 2018, which gives the state some influence in the appointment of bishops, Pope Leo said he does not plan immediate changes in this regard.
"For the moment, we will continue with the policy that the Holy See has followed for several years," he said, emphasizing that the pope still has the final say in the appointment process.
Reuters
