VATICAN, Italy – In a groundbreaking move, Pope Francis has authorised priests to bless same-sex relationships, marking a significant shift in the Roman Catholic Church’s stance towards L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics.
This decision, announced by the Vatican on Monday, December 18, 2023, represents one of Pope Francis’ most definitive actions in his ongoing effort to make the Church more inclusive.
Historically, the Church has maintained that marriage should be exclusively between a man and a woman, thereby precluding the blessing of same-sex unions.
However, the recent declaration issued by the Church’s office on doctrine, spearheaded by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, emphasizes that while the traditional doctrine on marriage remains unchanged, there is now room for the blessing of same-sex couples.
Cardinal Fernández, in his introduction to the declaration, stressed that this new allowance does not equate to an official validation of same-sex relationships nor does it alter the Church’s longstanding teachings on marriage.
Nonetheless, he acknowledged this as “a real development” and a “specific and innovative contribution to the pastoral meaning of blessings,” aligning with Pope Francis’ pastoral vision.
Rev. James Martin, a well-known advocate for L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics, expressed his enthusiasm: “This new declaration opens the door to nonliturgical blessings for same-sex couples, something that had been previously off-limits for bishops, priests, and deacons. Along with many priests, I will now be delighted to bless my friends in same-sex unions.”
This announcement follows a series of initiatives and discussions within the Vatican, particularly concerning the L.G.B.T.Q. community.
Notably, in a private response over the summer to conservative cardinals’ concerns, Pope Francis suggested the possibility of blessing same-sex couples, a stance that seemed to reverse a 2021 Vatican ruling against such blessings. He emphasized the need for “pastoral charity” in these matters, urging priests to move beyond mere protocols.
Moreover, on Oct. 31, the Pope approved a document clarifying that transgender individuals could participate in various church roles, including baptism and serving as godparents, further demonstrating his commitment to a more inclusive church.
The decision to bless same-sex couples has been a contentious issue, particularly in countries like Germany, where priests have defied Vatican resistance by offering blessings to same-sex couples.
Father Martin sees the declaration as a “major step forward in the church’s ministry to L.G.B.T.Q. people,” recognizing the desire of many Catholic same-sex couples for divine presence in their relationships.
The Vatican’s document highlights that blessings, which seek to invoke God’s presence in all aspects of life, are not limited to individuals but extend to objects, places, and various life situations, aiming to glorify and seek favor from God.
This expansion of blessings to include same-sex couples is a significant stride in the Church’s journey towards greater inclusivity and acceptance.
