What Is the Catholic Church’s Stance on the Vatican’s Declaration Allowing Blessings for Same-Sex Couples?

Brief Overview

• In December 2023, the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith issued Fiducia Supplicans, permitting nonliturgical blessings for same-sex couples.
• A group of 90 Catholic priests, scholars, and authors issued a “Filial Appeal” urging bishops to reject this declaration.
• The scholars argue that the distinction between liturgical and pastoral blessings is doctrinally untenable and risks implying approval of same-sex unions.
• The Vatican defends the declaration, emphasizing that it upholds traditionalburns traditional Church teaching on marriage.
• Opposition to the declaration is significant, particularly among African and Eastern European bishops, who see it as conflicting with cultural and doctrinal norms.
• The debate reflects broader tensions within the Church regarding pastoral care and adherence to traditional sexual morality teachings.

Detailed Response

Background of the Vatican’s Declaration

On December 18, 2023, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, under Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, released Fiducia Supplicans, a document addressing the pastoral meaning of blessings. This declaration marked a shift by allowing priests to offer nonliturgical blessings to same-sex couples and those in irregular unions, such as divorced and remarried individuals. The document emphasizes that these blessings are distinct from liturgical blessings, which are reserved for unions aligned with the Church’s definition of marriage as an exclusive, stable, and indissoluble union between a man and a woman, open to procreation [CCC 1601-1605]. Pastoral blessings, it argues, are expressions of God’s grace, meant to support individuals in their spiritual journey without endorsing their relational status. The declaration explicitly prohibits any rituals or gestures resembling marriage rites to avoid confusion. This move was presented as an extension of Pope Francis’s pastoral approach, emphasizing God’s love for all, even those in situations not fully aligned with Church teaching. The document sparked immediate controversy, particularly among bishops and scholars who viewed it as a potential departure from traditional doctrine. The Vatican clarified that these blessings are for individuals, not their unions, to address some criticisms. The declaration’s release followed years of debate within the Church, including a 2021 statement from the same dicastery that had previously ruled out blessings for same-sex unions. The shift in 2023 thus represented a significant moment in the Church’s ongoing engagement with contemporary social realities.

The Filial Appeal and Its Signatories

In response to Fiducia Supplicans, a coalition of 90 Catholic priests, scholars, and authors issued a “Filial Appeal” in February 2024, calling on bishops and cardinals to reject the declaration and urging Pope Francis to withdraw it. The signatories, representing voices from North America, South America, Africa, Europe, and Australia, included notable figures like Thomas Ward, president of the John Paul II Academy on Human Life and the Family, Dr. Michael Pakaluk, a professor at the Catholic University of America, and Father Robert Sirico, founder of the Acton Institute. The appeal was published in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, French, and German, to maximize its global reach. The group aimed to expand the list of signatories by February 15, 2024, with plans to release a more comprehensive list by February 17. The appeal argues that the declaration contradicts Scripture and the Church’s uninterrupted tradition, causing significant scandal among the faithful. It specifically challenges the Vatican’s distinction between liturgical and pastoral blessings, asserting that any blessing inherently implies approval of the relationship being blessed. The signatories contend that the declaration risks being misinterpreted as a shift in Church teaching on sexual morality, which they view as immutable [CCC 2357-2359]. They argue that pastoral care must align with doctrine, and blessings that appear to endorse same-sex unions undermine this coherence. The appeal calls for bishops to prohibit such blessings in their dioceses and to offer a “fraternal correction” to Pope Francis. This document reflects a broader concern among some Catholics about maintaining doctrinal clarity in the face of evolving social norms.

Core Objections to the Declaration

The scholars’ primary objection centers on the Vatican’s distinction between liturgical and pastoral blessings, which they argue is doctrinally unsustainable. They assert that any blessing, regardless of its form, carries an “immediate communicative effect” that implies approval of the relationship being blessed. This, they argue, contradicts the Church’s teaching that homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered and that only marriage between a man and a woman aligns with God’s plan [Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26-27, CCC 2357]. The appeal contends that pastoral blessings, as outlined in Fiducia Supplicans, risk being perceived as an endorsement of same-sex unions, particularly by those already advocating for changes in Church teaching on sexual morality. The scholars emphasize that the faithful may not grasp the nuanced distinction between liturgical and pastoral blessings, leading to confusion and scandal. They argue that the declaration’s pastoral approach effectively proposes a different doctrine, despite its claims to the contrary. The signatories also assert that the Church’s teaching on sexual morality is rooted in natural law and divine revelation, making it infallible and unchangeable. They express concern that the declaration amplifies existing divisions within the Church, as seen in the varied responses from bishops worldwide. The appeal frames its call to action as a defense of the Church’s mission to proclaim truth clearly. This critique underscores a broader tension between pastoral sensitivity and doctrinal fidelity.

Vatican’s Defense of Fiducia Supplicans

The Vatican, through Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, has robustly defended Fiducia Supplicans, emphasizing its pastoral intent and consistency with Church teaching. In a January 2024 press release, Fernández clarified that the declaration does not alter the Church’s definition of marriage or its stance on the sinfulness of sexual acts outside marriage [CCC 2351-2357]. He stressed that pastoral blessings are “simple expressions of pastoral closeness” and not an endorsement of same-sex unions. The Vatican clarified that these blessings should occur in nonliturgical settings, such as shrines or personal meetings, to avoid resembling marriage rites. Fernández argued that the declaration is neither heretical nor blasphemous, as it does not change the Church’s perennial teaching on marriage. He noted that the blessings are meant to help individuals express their faith, even if they are in situations not fully aligned with Church doctrine. The Vatican also acknowledged cultural sensitivities, stating that blessings would be “imprudent” in regions where homosexuality is criminalized, to avoid exposing individuals to violence. This clarification came in response to significant pushback, particularly from African bishops, who saw the declaration as conflicting with cultural and doctrinal norms. The Vatican’s response aimed to balance pastoral outreach with fidelity to traditional teachings. Despite these clarifications, the declaration continues to face resistance from those who see it as a source of confusion.

Global Reactions Among Bishops

Bishops worldwide have responded to Fiducia Supplicans with a spectrum of approaches, reflecting deep divisions within the Church. In Africa, many bishops’ conferences, led by figures like Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), have refused to implement the declaration, citing cultural and doctrinal conflicts. Ambongo emphasized that pastoral priorities in Africa focus on survival and life, not issues of homosexuality, which he described as a “doctrinal, theological problem.” Some African dioceses, such as those in South Africa and North Africa, have allowed limited blessings, but most have prohibited them. Bishops in Eastern Europe, including Hungary and Kazakhstan, have also rejected the declaration, with some, like Archbishop Tomasz Peta of Astana, forbidding priests from offering such blessings. In contrast, some German and Austrian bishops have embraced the declaration, with Germany’s bishops’ conference issuing guidelines in April 2025 for blessing couples in irregular unions, including same-sex partnerships. These guidelines, however, have sparked further division, as some German dioceses, like Cologne and Augsburg, argue they exceed the Vatican’s instructions by resembling liturgical blessings. U.S. bishops, such as Bishop James Conley and Bishop Robert Barron, have taken a cautious approach, affirming the Church’s teaching on marriage while urging priests to avoid confusion in administering blessings. The varied responses highlight the challenge of applying a universal declaration in diverse cultural and pastoral contexts. The ongoing debate underscores the difficulty of balancing global Church unity with local sensibilities.

Theological Implications of the Debate

The debate over Fiducia Supplicans raises profound theological questions about the nature of blessings and their relationship to Church doctrine. A blessing, in Catholic theology, is a sacramental that invokes God’s grace and favor [CCC 1667-1672]. The scholars’ appeal argues that blessing a couple, even pastorally, inherently suggests approval of their relationship, which conflicts with the Church’s teaching that homosexual acts are contrary to natural law [Genesis 19:1-29, CCC 2357]. They contend that the distinction between liturgical and pastoral blessings is artificial, as both carry a communicative weight that shapes the faithful’s perception. The declaration’s defenders, however, argue that pastoral blessings are expressions of God’s mercy, not an endorsement of the couple’s union. This perspective aligns with Pope Francis’s emphasis on accompanying individuals in their spiritual journey, regardless of their state of life. The tension reflects a broader question: how can the Church extend pastoral care without appearing to compromise its moral teachings? The scholars assert that the Church’s teaching on marriage and sexuality, rooted in Scripture and tradition, is unchangeable [CCC 1601-1605]. Critics like Cardinal Gerhard Müller have called the blessings “blasphemous,” arguing they contradict God’s created order. The debate thus centers on whether the Church can maintain doctrinal clarity while responding to modern pastoral challenges.

Cultural and Regional Sensitivities

The varied responses to Fiducia Supplicans highlight significant cultural differences within the global Church. In Africa, where homosexuality is often culturally stigmatized or criminalized, bishops like Cardinal Ambongo have argued that the declaration feels like an imposition from Western priorities. Ambongo noted that African pastoral concerns center on basic survival, not issues of sexual orientation, and that the declaration caused “dismay” among African bishops. This led to a January 2024 SECAM statement quoting Scripture’s prohibitions on homosexual acts and declaring same-sex unions “intrinsically corrupt” [Leviticus 20:13]. In contrast, some Western bishops, particularly in Germany and Austria, see the declaration as a step toward greater inclusion, reflecting liberal cultural attitudes toward same-sex relationships. Germany’s April 2025 guidelines, for instance, allow blessings with elements like music and scripture, which critics argue blur the line with liturgical rites. In regions where same-sex relationships are legally protected, such as Europe and North America, the declaration has been more readily accepted by some dioceses. However, even in these areas, conservative bishops and clergy, such as the U.K. Confraternity of Catholic Clergy, argue that such blessings risk scandal by implying approval. The Vatican has acknowledged these sensitivities, advising against blessings in regions where they could incite violence. These regional differences underscore the challenge of applying a universal pastoral approach in a culturally diverse Church.

The Role of Pastoral Care in Catholic Teaching

Pastoral care is central to the Church’s mission, aiming to accompany individuals toward holiness while upholding truth [CCC 1691-1697]. Fiducia Supplicans frames pastoral blessings as a way to express God’s closeness to those in irregular situations, without validating their relationships. The declaration aligns with Pope Francis’s emphasis on mercy and inclusion, as seen in his phrase “Everyone, everyone, everyone.” However, the scholars’ appeal argues that pastoral care cannot contradict doctrine, as this risks creating a parallel teaching that undermines Church authority. They contend that blessings for same-sex couples, even if nonliturgical, send a message that conflicts with the Church’s call to chastity for those with same-sex attraction [CCC 2359]. The Vatican counters that these blessings are not sacramental but simple gestures of spiritual support. This tension reflects differing interpretations of how to balance mercy and truth in pastoral ministry. The scholars emphasize that true pastoral care leads individuals toward repentance and alignment with God’s will [1 Corinthians 6:9-11]. The declaration’s defenders, however, see it as a way to meet people where they are, fostering spiritual growth without judgment. The debate thus grapples with how the Church can remain a “field hospital” for sinners while maintaining doctrinal integrity.

The Church’s Teaching on Marriage and Sexuality

The Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage and sexuality is rooted in Scripture and natural law, defining marriage as a lifelong, exclusive union between a man and a woman, ordered toward procreation and mutual sanctification [Genesis 2:18-24, CCC 1601-1605]. Homosexual acts are considered intrinsically disordered because they do not fulfill the unitive and procreative purposes of sexuality [CCC 2357]. The Church calls those with same-sex attraction to live chastely, offering pastoral support to help them grow in holiness [CCC 2359]. Fiducia Supplicans reaffirms this teaching, stating that liturgical blessings are reserved for marriages that align with God’s plan. Pastoral blessings, however, are presented as inclusive gestures that do not require moral perfection from recipients. Critics argue that this distinction risks diluting the Church’s witness to the truth about human sexuality. They point to Scripture’s clear condemnation of homosexual acts and the Church’s consistent tradition [Romans 1:26-27]. The Vatican insists that the declaration does not change doctrine but extends God’s grace to individuals in need. The scholars’ appeal, however, warns that such blessings could be seen as a step toward normalizing same-sex unions, contrary to Church teaching. This disagreement highlights the challenge of communicating unchanging truths in a rapidly changing world.

The Ongoing Debate and Its Broader Implications

The controversy surrounding Fiducia Supplicans reflects deeper questions about the Church’s mission in a pluralistic world. The scholars’ appeal underscores a commitment to doctrinal clarity, arguing that any ambiguity risks undermining the Church’s teaching authority. They fear that pastoral blessings could be exploited by those advocating for a redefinition of marriage, leading to further division. The Vatican’s defense, led by Cardinal Fernández, emphasizes a pastoral approach that prioritizes accompaniment over judgment. This debate is not new but echoes earlier discussions, such as those surrounding Amoris Laetitia and the reception of Communion by divorced and remarried Catholics. The global Church faces the challenge of maintaining unity amid diverse cultural and theological perspectives. The scholars’ call for bishops to reject the declaration is framed as a defense of the Church’s mission to proclaim truth [John 8:31-32]. Meanwhile, supporters of the declaration see it as a necessary adaptation to modern realities, reflecting God’s mercy. The tension underscores the delicate balance between pastoral sensitivity and doctrinal fidelity. As the Church navigates these issues, the debate over Fiducia Supplicans will likely shape future discussions on sexuality and pastoral care.

Historical Context of Church Teaching on Sexuality

The Church’s teaching on sexuality has been consistent since its earliest days, grounded in Scripture and the writings of the Church Fathers. Texts like Genesis 19:1-29 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 explicitly address homosexual acts, framing them as contrary to God’s design. The Church Fathers, such as St. Augustine and St. John Chrysostom, reinforced this teaching, emphasizing chastity and the sanctity of marriage. The Catechism reaffirms this tradition, calling for respect and compassion toward those with same-sex attraction while upholding the call to holiness [CCC 2357-2359]. Previous Vatican statements, like the 2021 Responsum from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, explicitly rejected blessings for same-sex unions, citing their incompatibility with God’s plan. Fiducia Supplicans thus represents a shift in pastoral approach, though not in doctrine, according to the Vatican. Critics, including Cardinal Gerhard Müller, argue that this shift contradicts earlier guidance and risks confusion. The historical continuity of the Church’s teaching underscores the scholars’ concern that any perceived change could erode trust in its authority. The debate reflects a broader challenge of applying ancient teachings to contemporary contexts. Understanding this history is crucial for assessing the implications of the current controversy.

The Role of Bishops in Responding to the Declaration

Bishops, as successors of the apostles, are tasked with teaching, sanctifying, and governing the Church in their dioceses [CCC 1555-1561]. Their responses to Fiducia Supplicans vary widely, reflecting their role as local shepherds. Some, like those in Kazakhstan and Malawi, have outright prohibited priests from offering blessings to same-sex couples, citing doctrinal concerns. Others, particularly in Germany, have issued guidelines that expand the scope of blessings, prompting criticism for exceeding Vatican instructions. U.S. bishops like Bishop James Conley have urged caution, emphasizing the need to avoid confusion with marriage rites. Cardinal Ambongo’s leadership in Africa has been pivotal, securing exemptions for African dioceses due to cultural and legal realities. The scholars、不

Conclusion

The debate over Fiducia Supplicans reveals a Church grappling with its mission to proclaim truth and extend mercy. The scholars’ appeal reflects a commitment to doctrinal clarity, arguing that blessings for same-sex couples risk implying approval of unions contrary to Church teaching [Romans 1:26-27, CCC 2357]. The Vatican’s defense emphasizes pastoral sensitivity, maintaining that these blessings are not an endorsement but an expression of God’s grace. The global divide among bishops—particularly between African and Western responses—highlights the challenge of applying universal teachings in diverse contexts. The signatories, including Thomas Ward and Dr. Michael Pakaluk, call for a return to traditional clarity to avoid scandal. Meanwhile, supporters like Cardinal Fernández argue that the declaration aligns with Pope Francis’s inclusive approach. The tension underscores broader questions about how the Church balances doctrine and pastoral care in a changing world. This ongoing debate will likely influence future Church policies on sexuality and blessings. The resolution of this issue requires careful discernment to uphold both truth and charity. Ultimately, the Church’s mission remains to lead all people to holiness while proclaiming the unchanging truth of God’s design for human relationships [CCC 1601-1605].