Pope Francis, whose tenure has been marked by a kinder and gentler approach than his predecessor, reiterated Catholic church doctrine that homosexuality is a “sin” but not a “crime,” urged local bishops to welcome LGBTQ people into the church, and called for an end to anti-LGBTQ laws and discrimination. “Being homosexual is not a crime.
It’s not a crime,” the Pope told The Associated Press in an interview released Wednesday morning (video below). “Yes, it’s a sin.
Well, yes, but let’s make the distinction first between sin and crime.” The Pope urged anti-LGBTQ bishops to change so they recognize everyone’s “dignity,” the AP reported.
READ MORE: Pope Francis Sends ‘Powerful Message’ by Elevating Liberal Bishop Over Archbishop Who Banned Pelosi From Communion “These bishops have to have a process of conversion,” Pope Francis said, calling for “tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us.” Francis also said the Catholic Church, which he heads, should work to end laws that criminalize homosexuality. “It must do this.