In a rare public apology, Pope Francis expressed remorse for using a derogatory term to describe the 2SLGBTQ+ community during a meeting with Italian bishops. The Vatican stated that the Pope did not intend to use homophobic language and remains committed to a welcoming church for all. His reported comments have stirred controversy and surprise, as the Pope has been praised for his previous efforts towards inclusivity.
Pope Francis Apologizes for Derogatory Language Towards LGBTQ+ Community
Pope Francis has issued a rare public apology for using a derogatory term to describe the 2SLGBTQ+ community during a meeting with Italian bishops. The Vatican clarified that the Pope did not intend to use homophobic language and remains committed to a welcoming church for all.
Background
Pope Francis has been praised for his efforts towards inclusivity since his election in 2013. He has made several statements and gestures of support for the LGBTQ+ community, such as:
The Incident
During a meeting with Italian bishops on May 12, 2022, Pope Francis reportedly used the term "transgender" in a dismissive and derogatory manner. The term "transgender" is generally considered offensive and outdated in modern society.
The Apology
Following widespread criticism, the Vatican released a statement apologizing for the Pope's choice of words. The statement emphasized that Pope Francis "did not intend to use homophobic language" and remains "committed to the path of dialogue and respect towards all."
Controversy
Pope Francis' apology has stirred controversy and surprise among both supporters and critics. Some argue that the apology is not enough and that the Pope should take more concrete action to address homophobia in the Catholic Church. Others defend the Pope's commitment to inclusivity, arguing that his apology is a step in the right direction.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Did Pope Francis use homophobic language?
Yes, Pope Francis reportedly used the term "transgender" in a dismissive and derogatory manner, which is generally considered homophobic language.
2. Did Pope Francis intend to use homophobic language?
No, the Vatican stated that Pope Francis did not intend to use homophobic language.
3. Has Pope Francis made other statements about the LGBTQ+ community?
Yes, Pope Francis has made several statements and gestures of support for the LGBTQ+ community, including advocating for civil unions and welcoming transgender people into the church.
4. What was the reaction to Pope Francis' apology?
The apology has stirred controversy and surprise among both supporters and critics, with some arguing that it is not enough and others defending the Pope's commitment to inclusivity.
5. What is the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the Catholic Church?
The future of LGBTQ+ rights in the Catholic Church is uncertain. Pope Francis has expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community, but the church's official teachings remain conservative and opposed to same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ+ individuals.
US Vice President JD Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, has revealed that he hopes his Hindu-raised wife, Usha Vance, will eventually embrace Christianity. However, he clarifies that their interfaith marriage is built on mutual respect and understanding, and that Usha has complete freedom of choice in matters of faith. The couple has found a balanced way to manage their interfaith household, with their children attending a Christian school and given the choice to be baptized.
US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about reaching a trade deal with China "pretty soon" after a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. In addition to announcing lower tariffs on Chinese imports, Trump also stated that the issue over US access to rare earths has been resolved. However, there has been no official response from Beijing and the final decision on the sale of Chinese-owned TikTok's US operations is still pending. Analysts see these developments as a breakthrough in the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. Our correspondents provide insight on the discussions between the two leaders and speculate on why Xi may have felt confident walking into the meeting.
At the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in South Korea, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump met for their first in-person talks in several years. Despite past frictions, Xi called for closer cooperation between the two largest economies in the world, emphasizing the importance of being "partners and friends." Acknowledging Trump's peace efforts in the Middle East, Xi commended his contributions and praised him as a "tough negotiator." Trump also expressed optimism for a productive discussion on trade and global security.
In a historic event, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Global Maritime Leaders Conclave and chaired the Global Maritime CEO Forum at India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, welcoming participants from over 85 countries. With major shipping giants, startups, policymakers, and innovators in attendance, the summit showcased India's advancements in the maritime sector, such as the replacement of outdated colonial laws with modern ones and the recognition of large ships as infrastructure assets. Amidst global tensions, India stands as a symbol of strategic autonomy and inclusive growth, ready to take on a leading role in the world's rough seas.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that the next generation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms will begin on the first day of the Navratri festival. This major economic overhaul aims to streamline the current GST system and support businesses, especially small and medium enterprises. In other news, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) are collaborating to organize a six-day program in New Delhi to strengthen executive capacity for International Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC). Lastly, the upcoming BIRC 2025 conference will take place at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the Global Maritime CEO Forum and Maritime Leaders Conclave at India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 in Mumbai on Wednesday. The event will bring together global maritime leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators to discuss sustainable growth and inclusive blue economy strategies, showcasing India's efforts towards becoming a leading maritime power. With the theme 'Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision' and participation from over 85 countries, the event will highlight India's commitment towards maritime sustainability and climate responsibility.
Cyclone Montha has intensified into a 'severe' cyclonic storm and is expected to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh this evening. The storm, which may cross the coast near the Kakinada area, is likely to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to several districts in Andhra Pradesh. Meanwhile, the Odisha government has evacuated people from vulnerable areas and issued warnings for heavy rainfall in several districts. Commuters in the Waltair region have also been affected as train services have been cancelled, diverted, or terminated.
The India Meteorological Department has warned of an impending severe cyclonic storm, named 'Montha', that is expected to make landfall near Kakinada on the Andhra Pradesh coast. The storm has already caused heavy rain and strong winds along India's east coast and will continue to do so until Tuesday. States like Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and more have been placed on high alert and the government has declared holidays for schools in several districts as a precautionary measure. The Union Minister and BJP Chief has also directed party units to assist in rescue and relief operations.
While conducting routine operations on Sunday, two separate crashes involving US Navy aircraft occurred over the South China Sea, coinciding with President Trump's visit to Asia. The first involved a MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter from the USS Nimitz, and the second involved a Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet. Luckily, all personnel involved were rescued without any injuries reported.
In a strong statement, President Asif Ali Zardari reiterates Pakistan's unwavering stance on the Kashmir dispute, calling India's claims on the territory illegal and in violation of international law and UN resolutions. He criticizes the recent remarks by Afghan leadership, highlighting the documented fact of terrorist attacks targeting Pakistani civilians and urging Kabul to take action against these militant elements. Zardari stresses that the fight against terrorism is a collective responsibility and Pakistan will not compromise its sovereignty or national security.