In a groundbreaking move, the Vatican has issued the “Fiducia supplicans,” a declaration that permits the blessing of same-sex couples, albeit without adopting any rites or implications resembling a marriage.
This act of blessing does not signify the Church’s approval of these unions but rather represents a gesture of pastoral support without altering the doctrinal stance on marriage.
The document, approved by Pope Francis and released by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, outlines the parameters for granting blessings, emphasizing the distinction between ritualized and spontaneous blessings.
Acknowledging the pastoral vision of Pope Francis, the declaration reflects a development in Church teachings by allowing the possibility of blessing couples in irregular situations, including same-sex couples, without validating their status as a marriage.
However, it strongly reiterates that according to Catholic doctrine, lawful marriage exists only between a man and a woman.
While discussing the nature of blessings, the document underscores the need for conformity with God’s design, prohibiting liturgical blessings for irregular or same-sex couples.
It also emphasizes the moral conditions required, akin to those for receiving sacraments, to bestow a simple blessing.
The declaration distinguishes blessings sought outside a liturgical context as expressions of a petition for God’s assistance and acknowledges that these requests are not contingent upon moral perfection.
Addressing concerns about confusion or misinterpretation, the document specifies that such blessings for couples in irregular situations should not resemble wedding ceremonies, must not coincide with civil union ceremonies, and should be conducted in alternate settings like shrines or prayer groups.
While emphasizing that blessings cannot legitimize relationships, the declaration highlights that what is blessed is the legitimate relationship between individuals, not the union itself. It underscores that these blessings, while allowed, should not become the norm but be evaluated case by case.
Conclusively, the declaration emphasizes that despite one’s relationship with God being affected by sin, seeking a blessing remains an avenue for spiritual support, highlighting the potential good in certain situations.
