Pope Leo XIV Live Updates: Robert Francis Prevost Is First American Pope

The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in over 130 years, has sparked hopeful discussions about increasing LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Catholic Church. Though his predecessor, Pope Francis, is celebrated for his supportive approach, Leo's past critical remarks raise concerns about his stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Experts note mixed indicators regarding his potential shift toward inclusivity, leaving uncertainty but also suggesting a possible turning point in the Church's evolving dialogue with the LGBTQ+ community.