Pope meets with Jesuit targeted by right for gay outreach

Pope Francis has met privately with an American Jesuit who has been attacked by conservative US Catholics for reaching out to gays.

The Vatican listed the audience with the Rev. James Martin among the pope's activities Monday, in a clear sign that Francis wanted it publicised. The implicit message was a vote of confidence in Martin's ministry.

Martin, author of "Building a Bridge," a book about how the Catholic Church should reach out more to the LGBT community, has had several talks cancelled in the United States because of pressure from conservative groups who oppose his advocacy.

In a tweet Monday, Martin said that during the 30-minute audience, he shared with Francis "the joys and hopes, and the griefs and anxieties, of LGBT Catholics and LGBT people worldwide".