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In a historic move, the Vatican has announced an openness to blessing same-sex couples, marking a significant milestone in the Catholic Church's stance on the LGBTQ+ community.
The decision, arising from a document from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, has been approved by His Holiness, Pope Francis.
According to the official statement, known as "Fiducia supplicans," the blessing of gay couples is now allowed, but it is emphasized that this does not imply ecclesiastical recognition of homosexual marriage.
The doctrine on marriage, based on the union of a man and a woman, remains unchanged.
The Vatican document establishes that blessings for same-sex couples may take place but outside of any specific ritualization.
It's an opening, but it is not intended to equate homosexual unions with the sacrament of marriage. "The blessing comes from God to those who, recognizing themselves in need and dependent on His help, do not claim legitimacy for their own state," highlights the document.
In particular, "blessings for couples in irregular situations and same-sex couples" are authorized. However, it is emphasized that these blessings should not follow a specific liturgical rite to avoid confusion with blessings proper to the sacrament of marriage.
The text delves into the doctrine of blessings, differentiating between ritual and liturgical ones and those spontaneous ones linked to popular devotion.
This doctrinal development, backed by Pope Francis, reflects the Church's view as "the paternal home where there is room for everyone with their toilsome lives," according to the words written by the Pope in Evangelii gaudium ten years ago.
Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, prefect of the Congregation, highlights that the statement maintains the traditional doctrine of the Church on marriage.
This declaration, which has undergone a process of consultation and papal approval, symbolizes an important step towards inclusion and pastoral understanding in the Catholic Church.
