Gio Benitez, Openly Gay ABC News Weekend Anchor, Joins Catholic Church and Reaffirms Faith with Husband by His Side

Gio Benitez’s Journey to Reaffirming Faith in the Catholic Church

Gio Benitez, a well-known ABC News weekend anchor who is openly gay, has recently taken a significant step in his spiritual life by joining the Catholic Church in New York City. This heartfelt moment was shared publicly as Benitez celebrated his confirmation mass at the Church of St. Paul the Apostle in Manhattan. What made this occasion even more special was the presence of his husband, Tommy DiDario, who stood by his side as his sponsor during the ceremony.

Benitez’s decision to reaffirm his faith was deeply influenced by the late Pope Francis’s legacy of inclusivity and compassion. The late pontiff’s progressive stance on LGBTQ+ issues, including his famous remark, “Who am I to judge?” resonated profoundly with Benitez. This message of acceptance and love encouraged him to reconnect with the Church after years of spiritual searching.

From Early Doubts to Spiritual Discovery

Benitez’s spiritual journey began many years ago. At the age of 15, he was baptized alongside his mother, but he struggled with a profound question: If God created him, how could God not love him exactly as he is? This question led him to study religion in college, not just to find proof of God’s existence, but to seek evidence of God’s unconditional love.

Despite his doubts and the challenges of reconciling his identity with his faith, Benitez’s journey took a hopeful turn in recent years. His marriage to Tommy DiDario in 2016 marked a milestone in his personal life, but it wasn’t until six months ago that he began to return to the Catholic Church. The passing of Pope Francis in April 2025 and the subsequent reflections on the Pope’s inclusive approach to LGBTQ+ Catholics inspired Benitez to deepen his faith.

The Role of Inclusivity and Support in Benitez’s Confirmation

The Church of St. Paul the Apostle, known for its welcoming and inclusive environment, became the perfect place for Benitez to reaffirm his faith. During his confirmation mass, Father Eric Andrews delivered a powerful message centered on the simple yet profound commandment of Christ: “Love one another.” This message struck a chord with Benitez, reinforcing the idea that loving oneself and others freely is a vital part of living out the Kingdom of God.

Benitez described his spiritual awakening as discovering the “Ark of the Covenant” within his own heart—a divine love that had been present all along, patiently waiting for him to embrace it. Surrounded by friends, family, and the supportive presence of his husband, Benitez experienced a profound sense of belonging and acceptance.

Impact of Pope Francis and Father James Martin on Benitez’s Faith

Pope Francis’s progressive views on LGBTQ+ issues played a pivotal role in Benitez’s journey. The late Pope was the first pontiff to openly use the word “gay” and advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality. His outreach to LGBTQ+ individuals, including regular meetings with transgender people, marked a historic shift in the Church’s approach.

Father James Martin, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Catholic Church, also influenced Benitez. Martin’s interview on Good Morning America, where he spoke about Pope Francis’s legacy, was a turning point for Benitez. Hearing a Catholic priest speak so beautifully and affirmatively about LGBTQ+ people helped Benitez feel seen and welcomed in the Church.

Reaffirming Faith with Love and Support

The confirmation mass was not just a religious ceremony for Benitez; it was a celebration of love, acceptance, and renewed faith. With his husband Tommy DiDario by his side, Benitez embraced a new chapter in his spiritual life, one that harmonizes his identity with his beliefs.

Benitez expressed deep gratitude to the church leaders who taught him about God’s unconditional mercy, as well as to his family members who modeled grace and support throughout his journey. His story is a powerful testament to the possibility of faith and identity coexisting in harmony, inspiring many others who may be navigating similar paths.

Why Gio Benitez’s Story Matters

In a world where many LGBTQ+ individuals face challenges within religious communities, Gio Benitez’s story stands as a beacon of hope and progress. His public affirmation of faith, coupled with the support of his husband and the Catholic Church’s evolving stance on inclusivity, highlights a growing acceptance and understanding within faith communities.

Benitez’s journey encourages dialogue about love, acceptance, and the importance of embracing diversity within religious spaces. It also underscores the transformative power of faith when combined with compassion and openness.

Conclusion

Gio Benitez’s decision to join the Catholic Church and reaffirm his faith alongside his husband is a moving example of love, acceptance, and spiritual growth. Inspired by Pope Francis’s legacy and supported by inclusive church leaders, Benitez’s journey reminds us that faith can be a source of strength and belonging for everyone—exactly as they are.

If you found Gio Benitez’s story inspiring, consider exploring your own spiritual journey or learning more about inclusive faith communities. Embrace the power of love and acceptance in your life today.