Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Catholic Church’s firm stance on traditional marriage and the sanctity of life during the Jubilee of Families Mass held Sunday, June 1, in St. Peter’s Square.
“Marriage is not an ideal,” the Pope declared, “but the canon of true love between man and woman.” His message underscored the Church’s enduring belief that heterosexual marriage remains the cornerstone of human society.
In a pointed remark during his homily, Leo warned against distorted notions of freedom, saying “humanity is betrayed … whenever freedom is invoked not to give life, but to take it away.” The statement was widely interpreted as a strong denunciation of abortion.
This latest message follows Leo’s earlier address to global diplomats where he reiterated the Church’s opposition to abortion and affirmed its doctrine on marriage. His position marks continuity with the teachings of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who—despite rejecting same-sex marriage and abortion—pushed for a more inclusive Church.
Francis had authorized blessings for same-sex couples through the Vatican document Fiducia Supplicans, a move that sparked backlash from conservatives. Yet even as he opened doors for marginalized communities, he held the line on core doctrines, once saying, “Who am I to judge?” when asked about homosexuality.
Pope Leo’s address on Sunday signals a return to stricter doctrinal emphasis while still navigating the legacy of inclusivity left by Pope Francis.
