Pope Francis has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding his position on same-sex unions, clarifying that he supports the blessing of individuals but not same-sex unions themselves. This statement came during an interview with CBS’s ’60 Minutes’, where the Pope was questioned about a perceived shift in Vatican policy following his approval of blessings for Catholics in same-sex unions.
The Pope was asked directly about his decision, with anchor Norah O’Donnell highlighting the significance of the change. 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.” He elaborated that while the Church cannot bless a union, it can and should bless individuals, including those who are homosexual.
Pope Francis emphasized that blessings are universal and should be available to everyone: “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 Pope’s previous approval of blessings for same-sex couples in a document titled Fiducia Supplicans (Supplicating Trust). This decision sparked significant reactions worldwide, with many gay Catholics welcoming the change, feeling it provided them with a sense of inclusion within the Church. However, it also ignited widespread debate and resistance, particularly from bishops in Africa, who strongly opposed the move.
The Pope’s remarks aim to strike a balance between the Church’s doctrinal stance and a pastoral approach that emphasizes inclusivity and compassion for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.
