In a significant development, the Archdiocese of Shillong announces the permission for Catholic priests to offer personal blessings to same-sex couples. Endorsed by Pope Francis, this move emphasizes a departure from traditional Church rituals and liturgies, signifying a personal and spontaneous prayer by the clergy.
This declaration, while not altering the doctrine of marriage, aligns with the Church’s evolving stance on LGBTQ+ inclusivity. It follows Pope Francis’ recent decree allowing such blessings but specifies they are not part of official liturgical practices and should not coincide with civil unions.
Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, an ally of Pope Francis, played a pivotal role in this shift, emphasizing the need for discernment by ordained ministers in determining the appropriateness of these blessings.
The Archdiocese stresses that these blessings do not indicate approval of the union but reflect the Church’s evolving approach. This decision marks a departure from the Vatican’s 2021 ruling, showcasing a progressive step towards inclusivity while maintaining doctrinal integrity.
