In a recent address to the Vatican diplomatic corps, Pope Leo XIV clarified his stance on contentious issues such as gay marriage and abortion.
The Pope, during his inaugural address, reaffirmed the church's definition of family as being founded on the stable union between a man and a woman. He also emphasized the inherent dignity of both unborn children and the elderly as creations of God. These declarations provide a clear articulation of core Catholic teachings on marriage and abortion.
According to The Independent, the Pope also underscored the significance of international relations and lauded interfaith dialogue as a crucial instrument in the pursuit of global peace. This meeting with the diplomatic corps is a standard protocol following a papal conclave.
It offers a newly elected pontiff the opportunity to formally greet representatives from nearly 200 countries with which the Holy See maintains diplomatic ties. The Holy See's status as a sovereign state, recognized under international law, also grants it observer status at the United Nations.
The meeting was a precursor to Pope Leo's official installation Mass, which is scheduled for Sunday, May 18. Leo, a member of the Augustinian religious order, has prioritized peace in his pontificate, as evidenced by his first words on the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, Peace be with you all.
Before his ascension to the papacy as Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost was instrumental in one of the most revolutionary reforms of Pope Francis' pontificate, allowing women to serve on the Vatican board that vets nominations for bishops.
However, he has also stated that women cannot be ordained as priests. Despite his years of service in Peru, where women often lead church communities, he appears noncommittal on whether women could ever serve in any ministerial capacity.
Despite these reservations, women who have worked closely with him in recent years have lauded his leadership style, ability to listen, and respect for their opinions.
Maria Lia Zervino, one of the three women Francis appointed to the Dicastery for Bishops in 2022 to review possible appointments, expressed joy when Leo was elected pope. She noted that the respect he showed for her and other women on the board and their opinions instilled faith in him as a leader.
Im convinced that he doesnt need to learn how to work (with women), how to let them speak, to listen to them, to have them participate in decisions, because thats what he does anyway, said Ms Zervino.
This statement suggests that Pope Leo XIV, despite his conservative stance on certain issues, may bring a more inclusive approach to his leadership, particularly in his interactions with women in the church. His tenure will undoubtedly be watched closely by both supporters and critics, as he navigates the complex and often contentious terrain of church doctrine and social issues.
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