He emphasized openness toward LGBT Catholics, support for discussion about the role of women in the Church, and continuation of the agreement with China on the appointment of bishops.
“I am continuing in the footsteps of Francis,” he declared. At the same time, he rejected changes in the doctrine on the ordination of women or same-sex marriage.
Unlike Francis, Leo is more cautious when it comes to political issues. He avoided direct criticism of President Donald Trump as well as accusations that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.
“I have no intention of getting involved in party politics,” said the pope, who grew up in Chicago.
However, he added that he was following the situation in Gaza “with great concern” and that the word genocide was “being used more and more frequently,” but that the Vatican could not take an official position at this time.
Leo also reiterated his condemnation of sexual scandals in the Church, while pointing out the risk of false accusations.
“Statistics show that over 90 percent of the victims are authentic, but there are also cases of lies,” he explained.
He is also continuing his efforts to stabilize the Vatican's finances. According to him, the situation is gradually improving after last year's deficit of 83 million euros: “The crisis is not over, but I'm not losing sleep over it.”
The interview is part of a planned biography of the Pope, which is due to be published at the end of July. Excerpts were published on Sunday.
(reuters, red)