The Vatican has declared that transgender individuals can now be baptized as Catholics and serve as godparents at Roman Catholic ceremonies.
The doctrinal office, responding to inquiries from Bishop Jose Negri of Santo Amaro, Brazil, clarified that transgender baptism is permissible under certain conditions, emphasizing the avoidance of potential public scandal.
Moreover, the Vatican conveyed that transgender individuals may also assume the role of godparents and witnesses at church weddings, subject to the discretion of the local priest. The directive encourages priests to exercise “pastoral prudence” when making such decisions.
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These developments, outlined in a three-page document signed by Argentine Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernandez and approved by Pope Francis, mark a significant shift in the Church’s approach to LGBTQ inclusivity.
Pope Francis, aiming to foster a more welcoming environment for the LGBTQ community, has been actively steering the Church away from rigid teachings. This shift includes a nuanced perspective on same-sex attraction, acknowledging that it is not inherently sinful, contrary to previous doctrines.