Gay Moms, Irish Catholics and the Pope

In a world where LGBTQ people are too often dismissed, Pope Francis welcomed their voices

- by SARAH KATE ELLIS

WHEN POPE FRANCIS WAS elected in 2013, both he and I were stepping into new leadership roles. Neither of us could have predicted the turbulent decade ahead, but one thing has remained constant in both of our roles—a firm and dedicated commitment to making the world a safe home for all, not just some.

I’ve had the privilege of visiting the Vatican and meeting with Pope Francis twice to speak about LGBTQ people—once in 2023 with colleagues at GLAAD who led Spanish language and faith work, and a second time with transgender leaders and LGBTQ advocates from Uganda and Ghana. Each meeting was scheduled for 30 minutes; both times, we spoke for well over an hour.

In a world where LGBTQ people are too often dismissed, Pope Francis made time to listen. His leadership has marked a profound shift in how the Church engages with LGBTQ people. From his famous “Who am I to judge?” 2013 quote to his more recent endorsement of gay priests, decision to bless same-sex couples and enduring support for immigrants, he has shown a willingness to meet people where they are, rather than where historical doctrine says they should be. That willingness has not come without resistance, but leadership is not about pleasing everyone—it’s about doing what is right.