The religious administration of the Vatican published a statement authorizing the blessing of same-sex couples, signed by Pope Francis, writes the New York Times on December 18.
The Vatican has long said it cannot bless same-sex couples because it would undermine the Church’s doctrine that marriage is only between a man and a woman. But the new statement makes clear that blessing a same-sex couple is not the same as the sacrament of marriage, a formal ceremonial rite.
The statement also emphasizes that it does not bless the relationship and that, to avoid confusion, blessings should not be given during or in connection with a civil or same-sex union ceremony, or when “any clothing, gesture or word typical of a wedding is present”.
The new norm was published in a statement from the church’s doctrinal department and presented by its head, Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández. Cardinal Fernández said that the statement does not change “traditional church teaching on marriage”since it does not allow any liturgical rite that could be confused with the sacrament of marriage.
Expanding the circle of people, said Cardinal Fernández, who can receive blessings, is “real development” AND “an innovative contribution to the pastoral meaning of blessings”. He added that this decision was “based on the pastoral vision of Pope Francis”.
We note that on October 31, Francis approved another document prepared by Cardinal Fernández’s department, which clearly states that transgender people can be baptized, serve as godparents and witnesses at church weddings.
Source: Rossa Primavera
I am Michael Melvin, an experienced news writer with a passion for uncovering stories and bringing them to the public. I have been working in the news industry for over five years now, and my work has been published on multiple websites. As an author at 24 News Reporters, I cover world section of current events stories that are both informative and captivating to read.