In a groundbreaking move, Pope Francis has officially sanctioned the blessing of same-sex couples by Catholic priests, marking a significant departure from traditional Catholic practice. The declaration, released on Monday, emphasizes the church’s continued adherence to the traditional doctrine of marriage as being between heterosexual couples.
The declaration specifies that while the church maintains its stance on heterosexual marriages, it recognizes the possibility of blessing same-sex couples without validating their status or altering the Church’s enduring teachings on marriage. Notably, the approval does not require an exhaustive moral analysis for same-sex couples to receive blessings.
The Rev. James Martin, a proponent of a more inclusive stance for LGBTQ individuals within the church, celebrated the decision on social media, calling it a “major step forward” that acknowledges the deep desire of many Catholic same-sex couples for God’s presence in their relationships.
The declaration argues that the act of blessing provides individuals with a means to strengthen their trust in God, emphasizing openness to transcendence, mercy, and closeness to God in various life circumstances. Pope Francis had previously expressed openness to blessing same-sex couples in an October letter to conservative Cardinals.
Acknowledging the historic shift, Representative Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), a Catholic, expressed gratitude to the Pope for recognizing that “we are all God’s children.” Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson also praised the decision, stating that it would release millions of lives from judgment and bring comfort to tormented hearts.
The move has implications for the 148 Catholics in the 118th Congress, according to Pew, with diverse reactions likely to emerge within the political landscape.
This news signals a noteworthy development in the Catholic Church’s stance on LGBTQ issues, prompting discussions about inclusivity and acceptance within the religious community.
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