Pope Francis, known for his emphasis on humor, is set to host a global gathering of comedians at the Vatican on Friday. The event, dubbed a "conclave of comedians," will feature prominent figures such as Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Chris Rock, Stephen Colbert, and Conan O’Brien among more than 100 comedians from 15 countries. Over 200 people are expected to attend the audience.
The 87-year-old pontiff has often highlighted the importance of humor, describing it as a valuable human attribute closely related to divine grace. This meeting underscores his ongoing efforts to engage with contemporary culture, following his previous interactions with artists and directors at the Vatican.
The meeting arrives amidst discussions concerning Pope Francis’ outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics. Recently, reports have surfaced of him using a homophobic slur in private meetings, prompting questions about his stance on LGBTQ+ issues. The Vatican has issued statements reiterating the importance of welcoming gay people into the Church while expressing caution regarding their admission to seminaries.
The event will also feature Fr. James Martin, a Jesuit priest and a notable advocate for LGBTQ+ Catholics, alongside celebrities like Julia Louis-Dreyfus. This initiative seeks to highlight how comedy can foster empathy and support within communities.