Pope Leo XIV to Host “We Are Church” Delegation in Historic Vatican Meeting

In a move viewed by many as a significant step toward greater dialogue and inclusion, Pope Leo XIV has extended an official invitation to eight representatives from “We Are Church,” an international advocacy group known for its progressive stances on LGBTQ+ inclusion and women’s ordination within the Catholic Church. The meeting is set for October 24–26, 2025, during the Jubilee of Synodal Teams at the Vatican, coinciding with the Holy Year celebrations and a broader push for synodality and reform within the Church .

The Vatican’s decision to engage directly with “We Are Church” has been described as both historic and unexpected. The group, which has long called for expanded roles for women, full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals, and reform of church structures, will use this opportunity to present its vision for a more inclusive faith community . While the Catholic Church has made incremental progress in recent years, including more open discussions on LGBTQ+ issues at synodal gatherings, official doctrine remains unchanged on matters such as same-sex marriage and ordination of women.

Members of “We Are Church” have expressed hope that this meeting will “open doors for marginalized voices” and foster genuine listening at the highest levels of the Church. In a statement shared on social media, the organization said, “This is a crucial opportunity for LGBTQ+ Catholics, women, and all those who have been excluded, to be heard by the Pope himself” .

Pope Leo XIV’s papacy has been marked by a renewed emphasis on synodality—a term referring to shared decision-making and listening within the Church—culminating in this year’s Jubilee of Synodal Teams . The inclusion of “We Are Church” among invited groups is seen by observers as an “outstretched hand to progressives,” reflecting a willingness to engage with critical voices in the Church .

A Vatican spokesperson noted that the meeting would be “an opportunity for dialogue, not policy change,” but emphasized that listening to diverse perspectives is essential for the Church’s mission during the Holy Year .

LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations have welcomed the news, calling it a “long overdue gesture” that acknowledges the faith and contributions of LGBTQ+ Catholics. “For too long, LGBTQ+ people have been made to feel unwelcome in their own church,” said a spokesperson for DignityUSA, an LGBTQ+ Catholic group, in response to the announcement . “This meeting is a powerful sign that our voices matter.”

Members of “We Are Church” have indicated that their priorities for the meeting will include advocating for the blessing of same-sex unions, the inclusion of transgender people in all aspects of church life, and concrete steps toward ending discrimination. The group has also called for greater transparency in decision-making and accountability for instances of exclusion .

The upcoming meeting has drawn international attention, with commentators noting its potential to influence broader church discussions on inclusion and reform. While no immediate policy changes are expected, the willingness of Pope Leo XIV to meet with reform advocates is seen as a shift in tone, if not doctrine .

The Jubilee of Synodal Teams, running from October 24 to 26, will feature a series of events and discussions, including the symbolic walk through the Holy Gate—a ritual act of welcome and renewal for all participants . The meeting between “We Are Church” and Pope Leo XIV is expected to be among the highlights of the event, and observers will be watching closely for signs that the Vatican is listening to calls for greater inclusivity.

For many LGBTQ+ Catholics, this moment represents both a recognition of their spiritual home and a reminder of the work that remains. As one participant put it, “Dialogue is just the beginning. Real change will require courage, humility, and continued advocacy—from all of us” .