VATICAN CITY – The Vatican has added a pilgrimage organized by the LGBT Catholic group “La Tenda di Gionata” to its official online schedule for the 2025 Roman Catholic Holy Year, signaling a rare gesture of openness toward the gay community.
The pilgrimage, set for September, is among hundreds of events planned for the Jubilee, which is expected to attract an estimated 32 million visitors to Rome.
The group, which advocates for greater inclusion of LGBT individuals within the Church, plans to hold a prayer vigil at a local parish before visiting St. Peter’s Basilica.
A Vatican official clarified that the listing does not indicate official support for the group’s activities.
“They are not sponsored events,” said Agnese Palmucci, spokesperson for the Vatican’s evangelization office, which is coordinating the Jubilee.
The Holy Year, set to begin on December 24, 2024, and conclude on January 6, 2026, is a major event for the Catholic Church, offering pilgrims opportunities to pass through “Holy Doors” at Rome’s basilicas for spiritual benefits.
Palmucci emphasized that ensuring all pilgrims have access to these doors is the primary consideration in adding events to the calendar.
Pope Francis, known for his more inclusive approach to the LGBT community, has allowed blessings for same-sex couples on a case-by-case basis, reflecting his broader efforts to foster dialogue and inclusion within the Church.