Pope Francis Just Called for the Decriminalization of Homosexuality Worldwide

In comments Catholic LGBTQ advocates described as “historic,” Pope Francis called for the worldwide decriminalization of homosexuality—making him the first pope to ever take such a stance.

“Being homosexual is not a crime,” he said in an interview with the Associated Press, which was published on Wednesday. “It’s not a crime. Yes, but it’s a sin. Fine, but first let’s distinguish between a sin and a crime. It’s also a sin to lack charity with one another.”

“And being homosexual is not a crime,” he said again. “It’s a human condition.”

The comments, which were part of a lengthy and wide-ranging interview, did not establish any new doctrine or push any new theological territory. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that gay people “must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity,” and that “every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided.” Nor is it counter to Francis’ previous stances on the matter: He has repeatedly urged the church to treat gay people with compassion. He famously said of gay priests, “Who am I to judge?”