Pope Leo XIV affirms family is based on union between a man and a woman, unborn has inherent dignity

By: D. D. Reese

In his inaugural address to the Vatican diplomatic corps, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Catholic Church's traditional teachings on family and human dignity. He emphasized that the family is founded on the "stable union between a man and a woman" and highlighted the inherent dignity of the unborn, elderly, sick, unemployed, immigrants, and other vulnerable individuals.

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope and a member of the Augustinian order, also stressed peace as a cornerstone of his pontificate, advocating for multilateral diplomacy and interreligious dialogue. He argued that achieving peace requires not only ending weapon production but also careful use of language.

While acknowledging the influence of Pope Francis’ more welcoming tone toward LGBTQ+ individuals, Pope Leo XIV did not endorse doctrinal changes. He emphasized the importance of creating a harmonious civil society through family values but did not fully support a 2024 Vatican document that suggested allowing non-liturgical blessings for same-sex couples.

The Pope also reiterated the Church's anti-abortion stance and expressed support for immigrants, adding that "no one is exempted from striving to ensure respect for the dignity of every person... from the unborn to the elderly, from the sick to the unemployed ... ."

Pope Leo XIV's remarks have elicited varied reactions. Some LGBTQ+ advocates expressed disappointment, hoping for a more inclusive stance under his leadership. Others urged the new pope to continue Pope Francis' progress toward LGBTQ+ inclusion and compassion.

As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his formal installation Mass, his initial statements suggest a continuation of traditional Catholic doctrine, with an emphasis on peace, family values, and the dignity of all individuals.