Thu Sep 18 12:30:19 UTC 2025: ## Pope Leo XIV Addresses Trump Administration, Sex Abuse Crisis in First Interview
**Rome – September 18, 2025:** In his first interview since becoming the first American Pope, Pope Leo XIV tackled a range of pressing issues facing the Catholic Church, from its relationship with the former Trump administration to the ongoing clergy sexual abuse crisis. Published today, September 18, 2025, the interview reveals the Pope’s cautious approach to major reforms while emphasizing the importance of human dignity and respect.
The Pope made it clear that while he won’t directly engage in U.S. politics, he will speak out on issues important to the Church, particularly regarding immigration. He praised U.S. bishops for their “courage” in challenging the Trump administration’s deportation policies and highlighted the importance of respecting human dignity in all policy decisions. While not directly criticizing former President Trump, the Pope acknowledged ideological differences between himself and figures within the Trump orbit.
Addressing the clergy sexual abuse crisis, Pope Leo XIV called it a “real crisis” that remains unresolved. He acknowledged the overwhelming authenticity of survivor accounts while also stressing the need to respect the rights of priests, cautioning against false accusations. He also asserted that the scandal “cannot become the centre focus of the church.”
On LGBTQIA+ Catholics, the Pope reiterated the Church’s teaching on homosexual activity, but emphasized that “Everyone’s invited in, but I don’t invite a person in because they are or are not of any specific identity. I invite a person in because they are a son or daughter of God.” He stated that attitudes within the Church need to change before considering any changes to official doctrine.
Regarding the Vatican’s controversial agreement with China on bishop nominations, Pope Leo XIV stated that he did not foresee any short-term changes. He is currently studying the issue and consulting with individuals on both sides, acknowledging the complexities of the situation. He defended the current agreement to prevent a potentially worse schism in the Chinese church.
Pope Leo XIV also addressed the Vatican’s ongoing financial challenges, assuring that the situation is improving despite a long-standing deficit and pension fund shortfall. He emphasized the need to continue working on financial stability while assuring that he is “not losing sleep over it.”
Finally, Pope Leo vowed to continue appointing women to leadership positions within the Church, but tempered expectations for the ordination of women as deacons or priests, citing ongoing studies by the Vatican’s doctrine office. He stated he would continue to listen to people and is willing to listen to opinions.
The interview, conducted by Vatican correspondent Elise Ann Allen for a biography of Pope Leo, provides a comprehensive look at the new pontiff’s priorities and approach to the complex challenges facing the Catholic Church in the 21st century.
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