VATICAN CITY: In a historic  announcement sanctioned by Pope Francis, the Vatican has made a significant decision allowing Roman Catholic priests to bestow blessings upon same-sex couples. This ruling, unveiled on Monday through a document from the Vatican's doctrinal office, marks a reversal of a previous declaration issued by the same body in 2021.

According to the new directive, these blessings, although permitted, will not be incorporated into regular Church rituals or liturgies. Instead, they are intended to signify God's inclusive acceptance of all individuals, without condoning what the Church deems as irregular relationships. Emphatically, the Vatican clarified that such blessings should not be equated with the sacrament of heterosexual marriage.

The document highlights a case-by-case approach for priests, emphasizing that they should not hinder the Church's support and proximity to individuals seeking God's assistance through a simple blessing.

This shift in stance was foreshadowed by Pope Francis in October, responding to inquiries posed by five conservative cardinals during a synod of bishops at the Vatican. Since assuming his papacy in 2013, Francis has pursued efforts to foster a more hospitable environment for LGBT individuals within the Church, without altering its moral teachings.

It's important to note that while the Church maintains that same-sex attraction itself is not considered sinful, engaging in homosexual acts is against its doctrine. The recent move reflects Francis' ongoing endeavor to cultivate a more inclusive environment within the Church's vast community of over 1.35 billion members, while upholding traditional moral principles.

Pope Francis Celebrates 87th Birthday with Children in Vatican Clinic

Pope Francis Wants Simple Funeral and Plans to be Buried Outside Vatican