All articles tagged with #blessings
Originally Published 17 days ago — by The White House (.gov)
The President and First Lady extend Christmas wishes to Americans, emphasizing the religious significance of Jesus Christ's birth, expressing gratitude for national blessings, honoring military service, and praying for peace worldwide.
Originally Published 2 months ago — by YourTango
On November 4, 2025, four zodiac signs—Taurus, Gemini, Scorpio, and Aquarius—receive blessings from the universe as Mars enters Sagittarius, bringing energy, optimism, and opportunities for growth, confidence, and inspiration.
Originally Published 4 months ago — by YourTango
On August 27, 2025, four zodiac signs—Leo, Virgo, Libra, and Sagittarius—will experience significant blessings from the universe as the Moon enters Scorpio, bringing emotional depth, clarity, and transformative insights that lead to personal breakthroughs and a clearer sense of direction.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by YourTango
On November 10, 2024, Taurus, Virgo, Libra, and Sagittarius are set to receive blessings from the universe due to the Moon conjunct Saturn transit. This astrological event encourages these signs to learn from past mistakes and embrace positive change. Taurus will experience a transformative shift in perspective, Virgo will find value in accepting help from others, Libra will use past lessons to improve their present, and Sagittarius will gain confidence in trusting their own judgment, free from others' opinions.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by YourTango
On July 16, 2024, under the influence of the Sagittarius Moon, four zodiac signs—Cancer, Libra, Sagittarius, and Pisces—will experience significant positive changes and blessings from the universe. This day is marked by unexpected good fortune, opportunities for rest, and moments of happiness, encouraging gratitude and optimism.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by National Catholic Register
Pope Francis defended the Vatican's authorization of blessings for same-sex couples, stating that everyone should be respected and blessings should be extended to all. He clarified that he doesn't bless "homosexual marriage" but rather two people who love each other, and emphasized that the blessing should not be denied to anyone capable of receiving baptism. The Pope's comments come amid ongoing controversy over the document, which has faced criticism and concern, particularly from Church leaders in Africa and Eastern Europe.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Catholic News Agency
Pope Francis defended the Vatican's authorization of blessings for same-sex couples, stating that everyone should be respected and blessings should be extended to all. He emphasized that he blesses individuals who love each other and asks for their prayers, and that the intent is to show the closeness of the Church to those seeking help in their faith journey. The pope's comments come amid ongoing controversy over the document, which has faced criticism and concern, particularly from Church leaders in Africa and Eastern Europe.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Reuters
Pope Francis stated in an interview that African opposition to homosexuality is a "special case" and expressed confidence that critics of his decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples would eventually understand it. He acknowledged the strong resistance from African bishops and emphasized the need for sensitivity and context when giving blessings. The Pope also addressed concerns about potential schisms in the Catholic Church, expressed support for a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians, and discussed his upcoming agenda and health.
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Reuters
Pope Francis defended a Vatican document on blessings for same-sex couples, clarifying that they are not an approval of a potentially sinful lifestyle but rather a way for individuals seeking to get closer to God. He emphasized that the blessings are meant to show the Church's support for those in different situations and should not be given in a liturgical context. The document caused widespread debate in the Church, with some bishops refusing to implement it, particularly in Africa where same-sex activity can lead to severe penalties.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by National Catholic Register
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.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Catholic News Agency
Pope Francis responded to resistance to the Vatican's declaration on blessings for same-sex couples, stating that "the Lord blesses everyone" and emphasizing the pastoral work of the Church to help individuals on their spiritual journey. He clarified that the Church's doctrine on marriage has not changed and that people are blessed, not sin. The declaration will not be implemented in Africa due to cultural reasons, and the intention is to bless people, not organizations.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by America: The Jesuit Review
African bishops, with Pope Francis' agreement, release a statement expressing their reluctance to offer blessings to same-sex couples, citing cultural context and potential confusion. The bishops reaffirm their commitment to church teaching on marriage while acknowledging the Vatican's recent declaration on pastoral blessings. They emphasize the need for respect and dignity towards individuals with a homosexual tendency, but maintain their preference not to offer blessings to same-sex couples in their dioceses.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The New York Times
A day after Pope Francis announced that Catholic priests may bless same-sex couples, a same-sex couple in New York received a blessing from a Jesuit priest, Rev. James Martin. The couple stood before Father Martin in a living room, where he performed a simple blessing without any robes or text. While the decision does not change the church's doctrine on marriage, it is seen as a significant gesture of openness and pastoral care. The response from individual priests across the country remains uncertain, with more liberal dioceses potentially being more accepting. Some LGBTQ+ Catholics welcomed the news, while others felt it was too little, too late to bring them back to the church.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Fox News
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) clarified that the Catholic Church's teaching on marriage has not changed following the Vatican's approval of blessings for people in same-sex relationships. The USCCB emphasized that the document affirms the Church's understanding of marriage as an exclusive union between a man and a woman, while also acknowledging the need for pastoral blessings to accompany individuals seeking God's love and mercy. Despite reassurances, concerns have been raised by some laity that the document may embolden leaders who oppose traditional doctrine, such as the German Bishops' Conference.
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Conversation Indonesia
Pope Francis' announcement that Catholic priests may bless LGBTQ+ couples and others in "irregular" situations marks a significant shift in the Roman Catholic Church's approach to loving relationships. While the declaration does not permit same-sex marriage or recognize civil marriages, it emphasizes pastoral care and the meaning of blessings in the Catholic Church. The declaration sidesteps divisive doctrinal questions and focuses on ministering to people rather than teaching doctrine. While the move is historic, it is likely to deepen divisions within the Catholic Church, particularly in the United States. Nonetheless, it represents a gesture of welcome and invites all people to experience God's love in a community devoted to building a more just world.