"Pope Francis Stands Firm on Same-Sex Blessings Amid Resistance"

Pope Francis publicly addressed resistance to the Vatican's declaration on blessings for same-sex couples, emphasizing that "the Lord blesses everyone" and that a blessing is an invitation to dialogue. He urged expressing concerns through fraternal discussion and clarified that the Church's doctrine on marriage has not changed. While the declaration allows non-liturgical blessings for same-sex couples, it will depend on local contexts and discernment of each diocesan bishop. Additionally, he stated that an LGBT organization cannot be blessed, but individuals can be blessed, and the declaration will not be implemented in Africa due to cultural differences.