Pope Francis says ‘Church is open to everyone,' including LGBT 'but there are laws’

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Reuters. As per these laws, certain sacraments are not accessible to certain individuals.

However, he emphasised that this doesn't imply exclusion, as each person can experience their connection with God within the Church in their own way. Regarding the issue of women not being allowed to become priests through the sacrament of Holy Orders and the Church's stance on same-sex marriage, the Pope reiterated that while these are not permitted by Church law, the ministers must accompany all individuals, even those who do not conform to the rules, with the love and patience of a mother.

Also read: The Surprising Surge of Faith Among Young People The Pope has been working towards making the Church more inclusive and accepting since the beginning of his papacy. He has supported civil legislation that grants rights to same-sex couples in areas like pensions, health insurance, and inheritance.

While the Church teaches that same-sex attraction is not sinful, it considers same-sex acts as against its teachings. During his visit to Portugal for the World Youth Day Catholic festival, Pope Francis emphasised that the Church is welcoming to everyone, "including those who make mistakes, who fall or struggle", leading the crowd in a chant of "Todos, todos, todos!" (Everyone, everyone, everyone!).

Also read: Pope Francis to spend 'few days' in hospital due to respiratory infection While the Pope has initiated several reforms during his tenure, including providing more roles for women in high-ranking Vatican positions, he continues to balance appealing to liberal believers while respecting conservative beliefs within the Church. The World Youth Day Catholic festival in Portugal left him rejuvenated, with around 1.5 million attendees at his