The Catholic Church cannot bless same-sex unions, the Vatican said on Monday, saying that “it is not lawful” to bless relationships that involve sexual activity outside of marriage.
The decision was issued by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in response to a question about whether the church has the “power to bless same-sex unions”.
The answer was “negative” and was later expanded into an explanation that was published in seven languages and approved by Pope Francis.
He clarified that the church should “welcome with respect and sensitivity people with homosexual inclinations”, but said that “the presence in such relationships of positive elements, which alone should be valued and appreciated, cannot justify these relationships and make them objects legitimate reasons for an ecclesial blessing ”.
The explanation also said that the decision does not rule out blessings given to individuals with homosexual inclinations.
The decision was made after a documentary released in October showed Pope Francis expressing support for same-sex civil unions. The Vatican later clarified that its comments were taken out of context, although they confirmed Francis’ belief that gay couples should enjoy legal protection.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.