Photo credit: The Holy See

The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, under the approval of Pope Francis, has issued the doctrinal declaration "Fiducia supplicans," signaling a shift in pastoral approach towards couples in irregular situations. The declaration allows ordained ministers to bless same-sex couples and those in non-traditional relationships, without endorsing or ritualizing their unions.

The doctrinal stance on marriage remains unchanged, emphasizing that the blessing does not constitute approval of the union. The declaration emphasizes the need to avoid any elements resembling a marriage rite while expressing pastoral closeness to individuals in irregular relationships.

The document distinguishes between ritual and spontaneous blessings, leaning towards a more inclusive approach in the latter category. Even couples not adhering to Christian moral doctrine can request a blessing, which the ordained minister may consent to. However, the gesture must steer clear of any implication of recognizing the relationship as a marriage.

Cardinal Victor Fernandez introduces the declaration, highlighting its pastoral focus and alignment with Pope Francis's vision. The document delves into the pastoral meaning of blessings, exploring the possibility of blessing couples in irregular situations and same-sex couples without altering the Church's enduring teachings on marriage.

The declaration asserts the inadmissibility of rites and prayers that could create confusion about what constitutes marriage, reinforcing the Catholic doctrine that recognizes lawful sexual relations only between a man and a woman within the context of marriage.

The extensive document further analyzes the meaning of blessings in various contexts, emphasizing adherence to God's will. It clarifies that liturgical blessings for irregular or same-sex couples are beyond the Church's authority, urging a broader understanding of blessings outside a strictly liturgical framework.

The declaration acknowledges the need for blessings as acts of devotion in spontaneous and freedom-filled realms. It emphasizes that those seeking blessings are not required to possess prior moral perfection. The document also draws from Pope Francis's response to the dubia, affirming the offering of blessings without imposing conditions, providing solace to those who feel blessed despite their imperfections.

While the declaration does not advocate establishing procedures or rituals for such cases, it allows ordained ministers to join in prayer with individuals in irregular unions, seeking guidance from the Lord and his mercy.

In the final section, the declaration opens the possibility of blessings as a sign for individuals recognizing their need for divine assistance. It clarifies that the blessings, while not becoming the norm, should undergo practical discernment in specific circumstances.

The declaration concludes by emphasizing that the blessing is bestowed on the legitimate relationship between individuals, not the union itself. It outlines guidelines to avoid confusion or scandal, ensuring that blessings for couples in irregular situations occur in contexts such as shrine visits, meetings with priests, group prayers, or pilgrimages, and not in conjunction with civil union ceremonies.

In summary, the "Fiducia supplicans" declaration represents a significant development in pastoral approaches, offering a more inclusive perspective on blessings for couples in irregular situations and same-sex couples, while reaffirming the Church's foundational teachings on marriage.