In a historic move within the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis has given his approval for priests to confer blessings upon same-sex couples.

This groundbreaking departure from traditional norms was formalized in a document issued by the Vatican on Monday, marking a significant stride for the LGBT community within the Church.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church clarified that such blessings should be granted only under specific circumstances and not be integrated into regular Church rituals or associated with civil unions or weddings. Despite this shift, the Vatican reiterated its unwavering position, affirming marriage as an exclusive union between a man and a woman.

The approved document conveys that this adjustment reflects an understanding that God welcomes all. However, it underscores the discretion of individual priests, emphasizing that decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis. Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, the Church's prefect, introduced the document, highlighting its commitment to the Church's traditional doctrine regarding marriage. He stressed that this modification aligns with Pope Francis's pastoral vision of expanding the Catholic Church's appeal, allowing priests to bless relationships still categorized as sinful.

It is essential to note that the document emphasizes that those receiving blessings should not be required to have prior moral perfection. In Catholic tradition, a blessing is a prayer or entreaty, typically delivered by a minister seeking divine favour for those blessed.

Cardinal Fernández clarified that the revised stance does not confer validation upon the status of same-sex couples within the Catholic Church. While the declaration suggests a more lenient tone, it does not signify an official change in the Church's position. Notably, in 2021, Pope Francis asserted that priests could not bless same-sex marriages, emphasizing that God cannot bless sin.

Pope Francis had hinted at his openness to the idea of the Church blessing same-sex couples in October. Before this official declaration, certain bishops in certain countries had already permitted priests to bestow blessings upon same-sex couples, creating ambiguity regarding the Church's overarching stance on the matter.