“I Did Not Authorize Blessings for Same-Sex Unions” – Pope Francis

Pope Francis has recently clarified his stance on the blessing of same-sex couples, emphasizing that he did not authorize blessings for same-sex unions. The Pope addressed the issue during an interview with CBS ’60 Minutes,’ where he explained that while he permitted blessings for individuals, this does not extend to same-sex unions.

In the interview, CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell questioned the Pope about what seemed to be a change in Vatican policy: “Last year you decided to allow Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples. That’s a big change. Why?”

Pope Francis responded, “No, what I allowed was not to bless the union. That cannot be done because that is not the sacrament. I cannot. The Lord made it that way. But to bless each person, yes. The blessing is for everyone. For everyone. To bless a homosexual-type union, however, goes against the given right, against the law of the Church. But to bless each person, why not? The blessing is for all. Some people were scandalized by this. But why? Everyone! Everyone!”

This clarification follows the release of a document titled Fiducia Supplicans (Supplicating Trust), which allowed blessings for same-sex couples. Initially, this was interpreted as a significant shift in the Church’s approach to LGBTQ+ individuals.

The Pope’s statements have sparked a global debate within the Catholic community, with some gay Catholics welcoming the move as a step towards inclusion. However, the development has also faced strong resistance, particularly from bishops in Africa, who oppose any changes in the Church’s stance on same-sex unions.