Pope Leo gives interviews That Leo gave a lengthy interview so soon into his pontificate marks a departure from the quiet media profile he maintained as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. Pope Leo XIV greets representatives of the media who covered his election in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican May 12, 2025. Cardinal Raymond Burke and Pope Leo XIV meet in the library of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican Aug. 22, 2025. For all the criticism Francis' synodal process received, it may well have served as an incubator for his successor. In the interview, Leo expressed openness to ongoing conversations around topics such as LGBTQ+ inclusion, the role of women in the church, and the reception of pre-Vatican-II liturgy.