President Obama promotes Western values against Russian intolerance . Instead of protecting gay and lesbians , use laws to protect their rights , Obama said . Last June , the Pope refused to judge gay priests in comments that ricocheted around the world . His comments come a day before Obama meets with Pope Francis . The Pope supports gay marriage , but has talked about the rationale for civil unions .
President Obama promotes Western values against Russian intolerance . Instead of protecting gay and lesbians , use laws to protect their rights , Obama said . His comments come a day before Obama meets with Pope Francis . The Pope supports gay marriage , but has talked about the rationale for civil unions .