Pope Francis' Approval of Same-Sex Couple Blessings Sparks Catholic Diocese of Cleveland's Response

The Catholic Diocese of Cleveland responded to Pope Francis' approval of priests blessing same-sex couples by acknowledging their desire for God's help but reiterating that marriage is between a man and a woman. The diocese stated that anyone seeking God's help in living holy lives, including those in same-sex relationships, can be blessed by the Church's ministers. The new document emphasizes that blessings should not be subject to an exhaustive moral analysis and do not change Church teaching. The Cleveland diocese has been at odds with Pope Francis over LGBTQ-related matters, including transgender issues.