The head of the Roman Catholic Church stated that, in some cases, priests should be able to bless same-sex and "irregular" couples.
However, the Vatican said that blessings should not be integrated into routine Church ceremonies or associated with civil unions or weddings. It reiterated its view that marriage is between a man and a woman.
A Vatican document outlining the move received approval from Pope Francis on Monday. The document states that priests must make decisions on a case-by-case basis, and the Vatican highlighted it as a sign that "God welcomes all."
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, the prefect of the Church, clarified during the introduction of the text that the revised position does not confer official recognition to same-sex couples within the Catholic Church.
The declaration signifies a shift in tone without altering its stance. In 2021, Pope Francis had declared that priests are prohibited from blessing same-sex marriages, citing the belief that God cannot "bless sin."
In the Catholic Church, a blessing involves a prayer or entreaty, typically recited by a minister, requesting that God provide favor to the individual or individuals receiving the blessing.
