LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - The Vatican s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith has issued a statement regarding the question, Does the Church have the power to give the blessing to unions of persons of the same sex?
Note the wording of the question.
Does the Church have the power?
It is essential to remember the Church cannot alter or abolish God s law, even if such a move would be popular.
The wording of the question respects that solemn fact.
The statement was dated February 22, which is the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, Apostle. The date of the statement adds gravity and authority to the announcement.
The Vatican stated that priests and other Catholic Church ministers cannot bless same-sex unions and that such blessings are "not licit" if carried out.
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Pope Francis shuts down proposals to bless same-sex couples
In a new document sure to disappoint those who thought Pope Francis represented a softening toward LGBTQ marriages within the church, the Vatican rejected proposals that would allow priests to bless LGBTQ unions, saying God cannot bless sin. The Vatican City flag, left, and a pride flag. Images courtesy of Creative Commons
March 15, 2021
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The Vatican said on Monday LGBTQ couples cannot receive a blessing by a priest. Pope Francis approved the decision despite his past openings toward same-sex couples.
“Since blessings on persons are in relationship with the sacraments, the blessing of homosexual unions cannot be considered licit,” said the note, signed by Cardinal Louis Ladaria, prefect of the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, or CDF.