By James Kabengwa
Laid to rest today, I want to pay tribute to Pope Francis, a man who has left an indelible mark on the fight for equality. As a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply grateful for Pope Francis’s unwavering commitment to love, acceptance, and inclusivity.
Pope Francis’ words and actions have been a beacon of hope for many in the LGBTQ+ community. When asked about gay priests, he said in July 2013, “If they accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them?” These words resonated deeply with his like-minds, reflecting a recognition that every individual deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The Pope’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion was evident in his actions. In June 2015, he joined 90 prison inmates for lunch, including 10 from the ward housing those who are gay, transgender, or have HIV/AIDS. This act of kindness and compassion demonstrated his willingness to reach out to marginalized communities and show love and acceptance.
Pope Francis’ words offered a powerful message of support and acceptance to LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. “We have to find a way to help that father or that mother to stand by their [LGBTQ+] son or daughter,” he said in December 2014. These words testify to his understanding of the importance of family support and acceptance in the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.
As someone who has been persecuted in Uganda for speaking out for the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply grateful for Pope Francis’ empathy and understanding. “Sometimes it happens that you feel disappointed, discouraged, abandoned by all: but God does not forget his children, he never abandons them!” Francis said in March 2015, resonating deeply with me. Francis leaves a legacy behind that the LGBTQ+ community is not alone, and that there are people who care and want to support them.
Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to inspire us to work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world. His words, “Families today need miracles!” (December 2014), remind us that love and acceptance can bring about miracles and transform lives.
As we remember Pope Francis, we honor his legacy of love and acceptance. I recall his commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion and his willingness to challenge traditional norms and expectations. May we continue to draw inspiration from his example and strive to create a world that is more loving, more accepting, and more inclusive for all.
In a world that often seeks to divide and exclude, Pope Francis’ message of love and acceptance is more relevant than ever. His legacy serves as a reminder that we are not alone, and that there are people who care and want to support us. As we move forward, let us continue to draw inspiration from his example and work towards a world that is more just, more compassionate, and more inclusive for all.
Pope Francis’ impact on the LGBTQ+ community will be remembered for generations to come. His commitment to love and acceptance has inspired countless individuals around the world, and his legacy will continue to inspire us to work towards a more just and compassionate world.
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