The Divided Interpretations of the Pope's Message on Same-Sex Blessings

When the Vatican officially announced its approval of the blessing of same-sex couples this week, the media went into overdrive. The news was termed a “shocking reversal on same-sex relationships,” a “landmark ruling,” and a “radical shift in church policy.”

You’d think the hyperventilating reaction signaled a major reform. Instead, all the attention concerned a change that was much more modest and not even new.

The Vatican said on Monday in a landmark ruling approved by Pope Francis that Roman Catholic priests can administer blessings to same-sex couples as long as they are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies.

A document from the Vatican's doctrinal office, which effectively reversed a declaration the same body had issued in 2021, said such blessings would not legitimise irregular situations but be a sign that God welcomes all.

It should in no way be confused with the sacrament of heterosexual marriage, it added.

The headlines around the world are as follows:

NYT: Pope Francis Allows Priests to Bless Same-Sex Couples

CNN: Pope Francis authorizes blessings for same-sex couples.

The cause of these headlines are a “statement,” Fiducia supplicans, issued by the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith (the pope’s doctrinal office), on the issue of blessings.