Catholic LGBTQ+ group meets Pope Francis in Vatican to seek approval for gender-affirming care

In Rome, a group of LGBTQ+ Catholics met with Pope Francis on October 12, 2024, to advocate for the approval of gender-affirming care, including sex change surgeries. The meeting, lasting nearly 90 minutes, was facilitated by Sister Jeannine Gramick, a U.S. nun previously disciplined by the Vatican for her views on homosexuality. The attendees included transgender, intersex individuals, and allies, emphasizing the need for the Church to adopt a more compassionate approach towards gender-diverse people. They urged the Pope to listen to their experiences and to encourage Church leaders to be more receptive to the realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Sister Gramick expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share these stories, highlighting the importance of understanding the lived experiences of intersex and transgender people. The Vatican has historically condemned medical care for transgender individuals, which has led to ongoing tensions between LGBTQ+ advocates and Church authorities. The meeting aimed to challenge these outdated views and promote a more inclusive dialogue within the Church. Despite the positive engagement with the Pope, the U.S. bishops have previously distanced themselves from organizations like New Ways Ministry, which advocates for LGBTQ+ rights within a Catholic framework. Cardinal Francis George had previously stated that such organizations do not represent authentic Catholic teaching, indicating a significant divide within the Church regarding LGBTQ+ issues. The outcome of this meeting remains to be seen, as the Church grapples with its teachings and the evolving understanding of gender identity. This meeting represents a critical moment for LGBTQ+ Catholics, as they seek recognition and support from Church leadership, hoping to influence a shift in the Church's stance on gender-affirming care and broader acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.