Vatican Affirms Transgender Baptism and Inclusion

The Vatican's doctrine office has stated that transgender-identifying individuals can be baptized under the same conditions as any adult, as long as it does not cause scandal or confusion. Children or adolescents experiencing transgender identity issues may also receive baptism if well prepared and willing. The Vatican also addressed questions regarding transgender-identifying people and those in same-sex relationships being godparents or witnesses to marriages, as well as the baptism of children born to same-sex couples. The document emphasizes the importance of pastoral care and the Church's unconditional love, while also considering the proper transmission of the Catholic faith.