Pope Leo XIV has confirmed the Catholic Church’s stance on same-sex marriage and abortion during his first address to the Vatican’s diplomatic corps.
In his speech on Friday, he stated that the Church views the family as founded on the “stable union between a man and a woman”. He reaffirmed opposition to same-sex marriage. He also said that unborn children and the elderly have dignity as creations of God.
These remarks clearly restate the Church’s long-standing teachings on both topics.
The Pope also spoke about international relations. He described interfaith dialogue as a key step toward achieving global peace.
This meeting is part of tradition after a papal conclave. It allows the new pope to greet nearly 200 diplomatic representatives. These are countries that maintain formal ties with the Holy See.
As a recognised sovereign state, the Holy See also holds observer status at the United Nations.
Pope Leo’s address came ahead of his installation Mass, scheduled for Sunday, 18 May.
A member of the Augustinian order, Pope Leo has made peace a central theme. His first words from the loggia of St Peter’s Basilica were, “Peace be with you all”.
Approach to women’s roles in the church
Before becoming pope, Cardinal Robert Prevost helped lead one of Pope Francis’ key reforms. This included appointing women to the Vatican board that vets candidates for bishops.
While Pope Leo maintains that women cannot be ordained as priests, he has worked alongside women in Church roles. During his years in Peru, he often saw women leading local church communities.
He has not committed to expanding their ministerial roles. However, many who have worked with him describe him as respectful and open to dialogue.
Maria Lia Zervino was one of three women appointed to the Dicastery for Bishops in 2022. She welcomed Pope Leo’s election. She said he valued her contributions and those of her colleagues.
“I’m convinced he doesn’t need to learn how to work with women,” said Ms Zervino. “He already listens, allows us to speak, and involves us in decisions.”
