The Vatican

Pope Francis is opening for the Catholic Church to bless same-sex couples, The Vatican announced Monday, as reported by Reuters and AFP. However, there are several caveats. The Vatican emphasizes that this is not a marriage ritual or any other form of established Catholic ritual. The blessing also may not be given in contexts associated with weddings, the announcement said. “This blessing should never be given in accordance with the ceremonies of a registered partnership, and not even in connection with them,” the Vatican said. Priests must decide on a case-by-case basis whether to give a blessing. It should be seen as a sign that God welcomes everyone. /ritzau/