Benedict backed me up on rights for LGBTQ couples, Pope Francis says
Pope Francis found an ally in his predecessor Benedict XVI when he spoke in favor of civil partnerships for same-sex couples, the pontiff said in an upcoming new book.
VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis found an ally in his predecessor Benedict XVI when he spoke in favor of civil partnerships for same-sex couples, the pontiff said in a new book due out in Spain.
The work is set for publication on Wednesday, but its contents were shared in advance on Tuesday with several media, including Reuters.
Francis has confirmed the Catholic Church’s opposition to LGBTQ marriages, but has repeatedly said same-sex couples have a right to be protected by civil union laws.
A greater openness towards the LGBTQ community has been one of the hallmarks of his 11-year papacy, but the more conservative Benedict was not known as sympathetic to the cause.
Nevertheless, Francis said Benedict stood up for him before an unnamed group of cardinals who had gone to him to complain about the pope’s “heresies” on civil partnerships.
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