Next week, the Vatican will host a series of LGBTQ-themed events in Rome, including a Mass, prayer vigils, and even a pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica. Among the most troubling elements is the planned presentation of a “rainbow crucifix,” a distortion of the cross that fuses Christ’s sacrifice with a symbol of pride—promoting lifestyles the Bible condemns (Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:26–27).
Organizers, led by Jesuit Father James Martin and the Outreach network, claim the events are about “listening to LGBTQ Catholics.” Yet the symbolism and message appear less like a call to repentance and more like an affirmation of sin. Pope Francis has spoken of welcoming all, yet true biblical love calls people to “go and sin no more” (John 8:11), not to remain in rebellion against God’s design.
This shift echoes what has happened in mainline Protestant denominations that embraced cultural accommodation over Scripture. Christians everywhere must see this as a warning; the Church cannot serve both Christ and the approval of the world.
