Pope meets US Jesuit who backs gay rights

Pope Francis yesterday met an American Jesuit who has been attacked by conservative US Roman Catholics for reaching out to gays, the latest evidence of the pontiff ’s willingness to shrug off right-wing criticism for the sake of his pastoral priorities.

The Vatican listed the audience with the Rev James Martin among papal activities, in a sign that the Pope wanted it publicised. Since only some of his private meetings are announced, the implicit message was a public vote of confidence in Mr Martin’s ministry.

Mr Martin, author of Building a Bridge, a book about how the Catholic Church should reach out more to lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people, has had several talks cancelled in the US because of pressure from conservative groups who oppose his advocacy.

The Vatican has welcomed him, however, appointing him as a communications consultant, giving him a speaking slot at a 2018 rally and now a private papal audience.