Pope Francis Approves Catholic Blessings for Same-Sex Couples
Pope Francis has granted his formal approval for Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples, as long as the blessings do not imply endorsement of their marriage. This marks a significant shift for the Vatican, which had previously stated that God “cannot bless sin” in a controversial decision in 2021. The approval was published in a new document titled “Fiducia Supplicans: On the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings.”
A Departure from Previous Stance
The declaration, approved by Pope Francis, represents a major departure from the Vatican’s previous stance on same-sex couples. However, the Vatican emphasized that marriage is still exclusively between a man and a woman. Priests granting blessings to same-sex couples must ensure that there is no confusion or scandal that could suggest otherwise.
Pope Francis’ Stance on LGBTQ Catholics
Pope Francis has been known for his liberalization toward LGBTQ Catholics during his papacy. Since becoming pope in 2013, he has called for the decriminalization of homosexuality and famously stated, “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?”
A “Major Step Forward” for LGBTQ Catholics
The Rev. James Martin, an American Jesuit priest and advocate for the LGBTQ Catholic community, described the declaration as a “major step forward” for the church. He highlighted that it recognizes the desire of many Catholic same-sex couples for God’s presence in their relationships.
Distinguishing Between Ritual and Informal Blessings
The Vatican’s document draws a distinction between ritual and liturgical blessings and more informal and spontaneous blessings. It firmly upholds the traditional doctrine of the Church on marriage and does not allow any liturgical rite or blessing that could create confusion.
The Vatican instructs priests to refuse blessings in connection with civil union ceremonies or any gestures, words, or clothing associated with weddings. Instead, blessings can be granted in settings such as meetings with a priest or visits to shrines.
Blessings for Couples in “Irregular Situations”
The document states that blessings may be granted to same-sex couples and other couples in “irregular situations,” such as divorced and remarried couples who did not receive annulments for their previous marriages. These couples do not seek validation of their status but rather ask for enrichment, healing, and elevation of what is true, good, and humanly valid in their lives and relationships through the presence of the Holy Spirit.
The document concludes by stating that God never turns away anyone who approaches Him and that blessings offer people a means to increase their trust in God.