Pope Leo XIV’s Candid First Interview: Addressing Global and Church Challenges
In his highly anticipated first interview as the Catholic Church’s groundbreaking first American Pope, Leo XIV clarified his stance on U.S. politics. While he intends to steer clear of direct political involvement, he affirmed his commitment to speaking out on critical issues impacting the Church, particularly immigration.
The wide-ranging discussion, published on Thursday, September 18, 2025, delved into numerous significant topics. These included the Trump administration, the ongoing clergy sexual abuse crisis, fostering a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ Catholics, and the intricate relationship between the Vatican and China.
This revealing interview was conducted by Vatican correspondent Elise Ann Allen of the news site Crux, forming a key part of Pope Leo’s biography, which was released simultaneously in Peru, a country where he served as bishop for many years.
On LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
Addressing the Church’s approach to LGBTQIA+ individuals, Pope Leo XIV reiterated the doctrine that while homosexual persons deserve dignity and respect, homosexual acts are considered “intrinsically disordered.”
He affirmed the Church’s opposition to gay marriage, upholding marriage as a union exclusively between a man and a woman. “Everyone is welcome,” Pope Leo stated, “but an invitation is extended not based on a specific identity, but on the profound truth that each person is a beloved son or daughter of God.”
He emphasized the importance of a shift in perception, noting, “I believe we must transform our attitudes before we can even consider altering the Church’s teachings on any particular matter.”
Vatican-China Relations
Regarding the sensitive 2018 agreement between the Vatican and Beijing concerning bishop nominations, Pope Leo XIV indicated that no immediate changes are anticipated. This controversial accord was signed during Pope Francis’s pontificate with the goal of unifying China’s estimated 12 million Catholics, who have historically been split between a state-approved church and an underground community loyal to Rome.
Demonstrating humility, Pope Leo remarked, “I certainly do not claim to be wiser or more experienced than my predecessors.” He further explained that he is actively studying the situation and engaging in conversations with Chinese individuals from “both sides” of the divide.
The Vatican has consistently defended the 2018 agreement against accusations that Pope Francis compromised the underground faithful, who have faced decades of persecution. The Holy See maintains that the deal was crucial to avert an even greater schism within the Chinese Church, especially after China had begun appointing bishops without papal approval.
The Unresolved Sex Abuse Crisis
Pope Leo XIV unequivocally described the sex abuse crisis as “a genuine crisis” that remains far from resolved, lamenting that the Church has yet to discover effective methods for victims to truly heal. Simultaneously, he stressed the importance of respecting the rights of priests.
He acknowledged the stark reality: “Statistics clearly demonstrate that over 90 percent of those who come forward with accusations are authentic victims. They are speaking the truth, not fabricating stories.”
However, the Pope also noted, “There have also been verified instances of false accusations, leading to the destruction of priests’ lives.”
Despite the gravity of the issue, Pope Leo asserted that the scandal “cannot consume the central focus of the Church.” While he played a crucial role in assisting victims of an abusive group in Peru find justice, he has faced criticism from a U.S. victim advocacy group for not doing enough to support other Peruvian victims.
Trump and U.S. Politics
Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the United States’ significant global influence and highlighted migration as a crucial issue for the Catholic Church. He recalled a letter from Pope Francis to U.S. bishops earlier in the year, which directly criticized the Trump administration’s plans for mass deportations of migrants.
This letter specifically challenged Vice President JD Vance’s theological justifications for the deportation program. Pope Leo commended his predecessor’s initiative and praised the “courage” shown by U.S. bishops in confronting the administration, expressing hope for their continued leadership on such matters.
“In one of my most recent conversations with the U.S. Vice President – I haven’t had direct discussions with or met the President – I emphasized the profound importance of human dignity for all people, regardless of where they are born,” Pope Leo shared. “It is essential to find ways to uphold human respect in the policies and choices we make.”
The Pope clearly stated that he is not a supporter of Mr. Trump, noting the differing perspectives between himself and his brother, Luis Prevost, a self-described “MAGA-type” who has met the former U.S. president. “We are in very different places,” he remarked.
“The U.S. is undoubtedly a major global player, and we must recognize that. Sometimes, decisions are driven more by economic factors than by human dignity and support. However, it is our responsibility to consistently challenge this, raise questions, and seek the most ethical path forward,” Pope Leo concluded.
Elevating Women’s Voices
Pope Leo XIV pledged to continue appointing women to leadership roles within the Church, but he tempered expectations regarding the ordination of women as deacons or priests. He referred to an ongoing study by the Vatican’s doctrine office on this very matter.
“At this moment, I have no intention of altering the Church’s established teaching on this topic,” he stated. However, he emphasized, “I am absolutely committed to continuing to listen to people on this issue.”
Navigating Vatican Finances
Pope Leo XIV stepped into the papacy inheriting a persistent financial strain within the Vatican. The Holy See has faced a structural deficit ranging from 50 million to 60 million euros, a significant one-billion-euro shortfall in its pension fund, and a steady decline in donations. The financial challenges were exacerbated during the pandemic, when the Vatican Museums, a primary source of income, were forced to close.
However, Pope Leo offered a more optimistic outlook, stating that the situation is improving and that “it is not the crisis that people have been led to believe.”
“I’m not suggesting we can become complacent,” he cautioned. “I don’t believe the crisis is entirely behind us; we must continue to work diligently on this. But I’m not losing sleep over it, and I feel it’s crucial to convey a more nuanced message about our financial health.”