GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Diocese of Green Bay has offered their stance on a radical shift in policy announced by the Vatican Monday which permits Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples.
The new decree from the Vatican’s doctrine office stems from a letter published in October sent to two conservative cardinals by Pope Francis, in which he suggests blessings could be offered to same-sex couples if the blessings were not confused with the ritual of marriage.
In a statement, the Diocese of Green Bay said it affirms the comment issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB):
The Declaration issued today by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) articulated a distinction between liturgical (sacramental) blessings, and pastoral blessings, which may be given to persons who desire God’s loving grace in their lives. The Church’s teaching on marriage has not changed, and this declaration affirms that, while also making an effort to accompany people through the imparting of pastoral blessings because each of us needs God’s healing love and mercy in our lives.
At the end of the statement, the Diocese of Green Bay added, “May we all pray for each other as we prepare for Christmas.”
