A priest in Brazil has been praised for posting a picture alongside two transgender followers, saying "we are all God’s children".
Father Julio Lancellotti shared the picture with the caption: "Always accept, never discriminate."
The picture was uploaded to Lancellotti’s 340,000 Instagram followers, and quickly attracted tens of thousands of likes.
In a country known for its religious conservatism, Lancellotti has become known for his liberal and outspoken attitudes.
Lancellotti has been widely praised for his extensive work with homeless people over many years at the Sao Miguel Arcanjo Church in the neighbourhood of Mooca in the south-eastern Brazilian city of Sao Paulo.
But the 72-year-old has also reportedly been the target of internet trolls for tirelessly defending minorities and the poorest in society.
He gained fame in 2018 when he was filmed on Holy Saturday having his feet kissed by a homeless transsexual and asking for forgiveness for the suffering society had inflicted upon her.
The video of Lancellotti asking Sheila for forgiveness and telling people to respect "her way of being" was viewed by thousands.
Instagram user Laryssa Alvarazi commented on his latest photo, in which he appears wearing an unusual face mask to protect himself from Covid-19: "Father, I love you, thank you for teaching us what Christ's love is really about!"
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Instagram user Georgea Dias wrote: "I see Jesus in all your posts! It's love and that's that! May God bless you."
Homophobia only starting being officially considered a crime in Brazil for the first time in 2019.
Lancellotti has been honoured by the Brazilian Bar Association's Human Rights Committee for his social work, and he remains active in the community.
Supporters in Brazil reportedly began a campaign recently for the priest to be given the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine.
Despite being high risk due to his age, Lancellotti has continued his social work this year throughout the pandemic.
In October, he reportedly received a call from Pope Francis, who, according to Lancelotti, said he saw photos of his work in Sao Paulo and said: "Let us not be discouraged and always do like Jesus, being with the poorest".
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