The Vatican hosts a significant event on September 5, welcoming LGBTQ+ Catholics for an international meeting titled “Listening to the experiences of LGBTQ Catholics,” organized by the American group Outreach, founded by Jesuit Father James Martin. Attendees from various nations share personal stories, signaling Vatican openness.

That evening, a prayer vigil at Rome’s Gesu Church, themed “Church – a home for all. Starting from the borders,” includes LGBTQ+ Christians and their families. A rainbow cross, carried by pilgrims along the Via Francigena, is presented. On September 6, Bishop Francesco Savino leads a Mass at Gesu Church, followed by a Jubilee Pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica’s Holy Door with over 1,000 participants.

This event follows a tragic shooting on August 27 at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, where 23-year-old Robin (Robert) Westman, who identified as transgender, killed two children and injured 17 during Mass in a mass shooting. Westman’s YouTube videos revealed anti-Christian and occult motives, raising questions about the Vatican’s inclusivity timing amid heightened tensions.