Pope Francis has responded to five conservative cardinals challenging church teaching on homosexuality, suggesting that there could be ways to bless same-sex unions without confusing them with sacramental marriage. The Vatican published the Pope’s letter in which he emphasized pastoral charity, patience, and understanding in dealing with the issue. While reiterating that matrimony is a union between a man and a woman, he stated that pastoral prudence should discern whether blessings for same-sex couples could be offered on a case-by-case basis. This measure would go against the Catholic Church’s previous stance and biblical doctrine. However, LGBTQ+ people celebrate it as a sign of inclusivity in the Catholic Church.
