| Published May 9, 2025
There had long been a taboo against a U.S. pope, but the Chicago native, who had been a leading candidate for the papacy, was seemingly eligible also because he’s a Peruvian citizen and lived for years in Peru, first as a missionary and then as an archbishop.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, has articulated clear positions on several contentious social issues, indicating a potential shift in the Roman Catholic Church’s approach under his leadership.
Stance on Abortion and Euthanasia
Pope Leo XIV has consistently expressed strong opposition to abortion. In a 2012 address to bishops, he criticized societal trends that, in his view, promote beliefs contrary to the Gospel, specifically citing the “homosexual lifestyle” and “alternative families comprised of same-sex partners and their adopted children.” He also opposed government initiatives promoting gender ideology in schools, stating, “The promotion of gender ideology is confusing, because it seeks to create genders that don’t exist.”
His pro-life stance extends to opposition against euthanasia. In 2016, he reposted a tweet condemning assisted suicides in Belgium, reinforcing his commitment to the sanctity of life at all stages.
Views on Gender Ideology and Same-Sex Relationships
Pope Leo XIV has been critical of gender ideology and the recognition of same-sex relationships. During his tenure as bishop in Chiclayo, Peru, he opposed government efforts to introduce gender ideology into school curricula, arguing that it promotes confusion by creating non-existent genders.
Regarding same-sex relationships, he has expressed concern over media and societal acceptance of what he terms the “homosexual lifestyle” and non-traditional family structures. These views suggest a more conservative approach compared to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who had taken steps toward inclusivity, such as permitting blessings for same-sex couples under certain conditions.
Environmental Advocacy
Aligning with Pope Francis’ environmental initiatives, Pope Leo XIV has emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change. In November, he advocated for moving “from words to action” concerning the environmental crisis, cautioning against a “tyrannical” dominion over nature.
Overall Takeaway
In summary, Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a pivotal moment for the Roman Catholic Church, blending a commitment to traditional values on life, gender, and family with a continued focus on global issues like climate change. His clear stances on abortion, gender ideology, and same-sex relationships suggest a conservative shift in Church leadership, potentially reshaping its global influence and internal dynamics. As the first American pope, Leo XIV’s leadership will be closely watched, with his decisions likely to resonate far beyond the Vatican.
SOURCES: BREITBART – Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago Becomes First American Pope, Choses the Name Leo XIV
THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER – Robert Prevost Becomes First American Pope, Takes the Name Leo XIV
NEWSMAX – On Hot-Button Issues, Pope Leo in His Own Words
Be the first to comment