Pope Leo XIV marked his first formal papal interview with a clear message: his foremost mission is spreading the Gospel, not attempting to solve global problems.

CNA reported that in an in-depth conversation featured in a new biography, the pontiff stressed that his primary focus is upholding the Catholic faith, even as he cautiously navigates complex debates concerning doctrine, Church governance, and internal division.

The interview was conducted by Elise Ann Allen, senior correspondent for Crux, as part of her biography titled “Leo XIV: Citizen of the World, Missionary of the 21st Century,” currently available in Spanish and due for English publication next year. This conversation represented the first formal interview since the U.S.-born pope's election. It offered insight into how he intends to guide the Church in a time of both transition and tension.

Pope Leo explained that while the Catholic Church has an important voice on global issues, his role should not be mistaken for that of a global problem-solver. “I believe very strongly in Jesus Christ,” he said, adding that his task is to help Catholics remain grounded in their faith and identity. He emphasized that his role as bishop of Rome is a spiritual mission first and foremost.

He addressed multiple controversial topics during the interview, including sexual morality, same-sex blessings, the role of women in Church leadership, and divisions over liturgical practices. On the question of altering doctrine around sexuality and marriage, he made clear that no substantial changes are imminent. He reiterated that marriage remains, in Church teaching, a permanent union between a man and a woman.

Pope urges unity amid growing polarization

The pope also tackled the growing polarization within the Church, especially relating to hot-button issues. He stated his desire to prevent ideological battles from disrupting a sense of communion among Catholics. Instead of drastic reforms, he prefers a continued path of dialogue and mutual respect.

On same-sex couples and Church acceptance, the pontiff distinguished between welcoming individuals and changing core teaching. He criticized regions in Northern Europe that have issued blessing rituals for same-sex unions, noting these acts are inconsistent with the guidance outlined in Pope Francis’s 2023 declaration, Fiducia Supplicans. “The individuals will be accepted and received,” he said, but he affirmed the Church’s traditional understanding of sacramental marriage.

As for women’s roles, Pope Leo sees the issue as requiring additional theological reflection. He voiced support for women in leadership roles, echoing his predecessor’s initiatives. However, he said the question of ordaining women to the diaconate remains premature, given uncertainties around the historical and theological foundation of the diaconate itself.

Synodality as dialogue, not democracy

Leo XIV emphasized that synodality—a key reform promoted under Pope Francis—means a communal journey rooted in conversation and understanding, but not a shift toward democratizing Church leadership. He expressed wariness of applying secular political models to ecclesial life. “Democracy is not necessarily a perfect solution to everything,” he observed.

He expressed optimism that the Church can continue building on recent synodal experiences to address complex matters through consensus. A study group under the Synod on Synodality is currently examining the viability of expanded ministry roles for women, including the potential female diaconate. “We’ll walk with that and see what comes,” Pope Leo added.

The pontiff also addressed the divisive debate over the Traditional Latin Mass. While open to dialogue with its supporters, he voiced concern that the controversy has taken on ideological overtones. “It’s become a political tool,” he said, calling for a more pastoral and less partisan conversation regarding liturgical preferences.

Need for better communication inside the Vatican

Within the Vatican itself, Pope Leo spoke candidly about the challenges of internal communication. He criticized what he described as a “silo mentality” among Vatican departments, where decentralized efforts hinder collaboration. “The lack of dialogue ... has at times been of great limitation and harm,” he explained.

While commending the structural changes introduced under Pope Francis’ Praedicate Evangelium reform, Leo XIV believes further steps are necessary to promote effective governance. He called for improved instruments of communication across dicasteries and a culture of openness among Church administrators.

The pope also broached the sensitive topic of clerical sexual abuse, recognizing both the need to support victims and the importance of due process for clergy who are accused. He cautioned against allowing this crisis to define the Church’s identity, noting that doing so could distract from its broader mission.

Outreach to the Jewish community and other faiths

In the area of interfaith relations, Pope Leo mentioned progress in repairing relations with the Jewish community. Tensions had arisen under Pope Francis following the 2023 conflict involving Hamas and Gaza. Leo expressed hope, saying the relationship had “improved a bit” since his arrival at the papacy.

He stressed that while dialogue with other faiths remains a priority, it should never overshadow the Church’s central message. “I’m not afraid to say I believe in Jesus Christ and that he died on the cross and rose from the dead,” he said, reaffirming the responsibility of Catholics to share their faith unapologetically.

Despite differing perspectives on many internal and external issues, Pope Leo's approach is one of continuity with the past and cautious engagement with the future. He aims to uphold tradition while listening deliberately to the voices within the Church and broader global community.