Papa: I will remain open to homosexuals

Leo, who became the first American pope in May, also expressed concern for the US political environment and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

But showing a reserve compared to his predecessor, Leo deviated from direct criticism of President Donald Trump or the claim that Israel committed genocide.

The interview was held in late July for a biography to be published by Penguin Peru.

Initial passages were published last Sunday.

I have no intention of getting involved in party politics”, Leo said.

Leo also reiterated France's firm conviction for the sex abuse scandals that have affected the Church with 1.4 billion members worldwide, but also voiced concern over false charges against priests, writes Reuters.

Leo, 70, has shown a more reserved style than his predecessor, who often gave interviews, spoke sincerely about world events and criticized both Trump and Israel harshly.

Leo said he would preserve Francis's opening to the leadership of women in Church and LGBT Catholics, but did not suggest further steps forward.

“I hope to continue in the footsteps of Francisco”, Leo said.

Francisco primarily tried to open the Church to the modern world, receiving criticism from conservative Catholics, even from some cardinals who were concerned that he was dimming the church's strict teachings.

It issued a decree in 2023 that allowed priests to administer blessings for couples of the same sex.