The Catholic Church has welcomed its first American pope, Pope Leo XIV, sparking global interest in how he will tackle sensitive topics like LGBTQ rights, political figures like Donald Trump, and a range of social issues.

While heartened by the new pope's commitment to social justice, advocates say it's unclear whether Leo will continue Francis' LGBTQ+ outreach.

Pope Leo XIV has affirmed his views on gay marriage and abortion, setting the tone for LGBTQ+ rights at the start of his papacy. The new head of the Catholic Church – the first American to hold the role – made the comments during his first meeting with the Vatican diplomatic corps on Friday (16 May),

Hints as to what postures Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, might take on some of the most controversial issues roiling the U.S. may come from his recent activity on social media​.

American pope: History is made with new Pope Leo XIV, first-ever pontiff from US: Recap Those and other reposts prompted some harsh assessments of the new pope on social media. "He is anti-Trump, anti-MAGA, pro-open Borders, and a total Marxist like Pope ...

Pope Leo XIV quietly reaffirmed orthodox Catholic teachings on family, abortion, and social justice in his first audience with world diplomats at the Vatican. The pontiff addressed ambassadors from around the world at Clementine Hall on Friday,

Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, said he expects Pope Leo XIV "feels an obligation," to speak to what he called the issues of the day, amid "real challenges globally."