The Pope’s recent words regarding those in same-sex unions asking for a blessing should not be seen as an indication that the Church is or will soon change its teaching on marriage. Many people are attempting to twist the Pope’s words, but the truth is that there is no intention to modify the Church’s stance on marriage.
As much as many would like to see the Catholic Church change, as other Christian denominations have, and conform to modern society it can not.
Similarly, many Catholics criticize the Pope believing he is in error to allow blessing individuals engaged in same-sex relationships. Some have even suggested that he is calling for the blessing of the union itself, something he is not. Indeed much of the confusion seems to have come from those who have not read the official Vatican document and instead have merely relied upon sensationalized media headlines.
When the declaration is read in its entirety we can see that the Pope is not allowing for the Blessing of the union of same-sex couples he is allowing for the blessing of the persons of the couple.
Why A Blessing
Anyone can ask for a blessing when they are seeking God’s assistance, mercy, and grace. Blessings serve to invoke God’s help, presence, and love in a person’s life. As the Pope noted: Those who ask for a blessing show themselves “to need God’s saving presence” in their lives by expressing “a petition for God’s assistance, a plea to live better” (par. 21). This request should be received and valued “outside of a liturgical framework” when found “in a realm of greater spontaneity and freedom” (par. 23). Some seem to believe that being a sinner precludes them from asking for a blessing.
This is contrary to Christian teaching that goes back to Christ himself and defies the basic tenets of Christian doctrine that God’s mercy has no limit and we do not know how his grace can come upon us. Instead of criticizing and judging, we should be prayerful that the blessing received will have an impact on those petitioning for them so that their soul may receive a supernatural kick in the pants or encouragement. Anyone can ask for a blessing when they are seeking God’s assistance, mercy, and grace.
The Vatican’s Own Words
From the Vatican document: Declaration Fiducia Supplicans On the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings
The Vatican document, titled “Declaration: Fiducia Supplicans On the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings,” emphasizes that requesting a blessing signifies a recognition of the need for God’s saving presence and a desire to live better. These requests can be made outside of formal liturgical settings, allowing for spontaneity and freedom. The document highlights that blessings should be viewed as acts of devotion within popular piety, and individuals seeking blessings should not be expected to possess moral perfection beforehand.
It further states that rites and prayers must not create confusion between the true definition of marriage as the exclusive, stable, and indissoluble union between a man and a woman, open to procreation, and any beliefs or practices that contradict this understanding. The Catholic Church’s doctrine on marriage remains unchanged and unwavering in this regard.
The Promise
Now, let’s look at why Pope Francis, or any Pope for that matter can not change an official Church teaching such as Marriage. Christ made a promise that his Church, The ONE, Holy, Catholic (universal), and Apostolic Church, the promise is that it will endure until the end.
“The gates of hell shall not prevail” — Matthew 16
Although some may see with the eyes of the flesh that the Pope is attempting to lead the Church astray and that this is the gates of hell prevailing. The eyes of faith see what is unseen.