Overview

• Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, concluding a 12-year papacy marked by incremental reforms on LGBTQ inclusion within the Catholic Church.
• His 2013 remark, 'Who am I to judge?' signaled a significant tonal shift, challenging longstanding Church norms on LGBTQ issues.
• Under his leadership, the Vatican allowed transgender baptisms, same-sex couple blessings, and progressive clergy appointments, including elevating Bishop Robert McElroy while bypassing conservative Archbishop José Gómez.
• Francis endorsed civil protections for same-sex couples and condemned laws criminalizing homosexuality, framing these as issues of human dignity.
• The Church now prepares for a conclave to elect his successor, a decision that could either expand, sustain, or reverse Francis's LGBTQ-inclusive policies.