On Monday, the Vatican said in an official ruling approved by Pope Francis that Roman Catholic priests can bless same-sex couples as long as they are not part of regular church rituals or liturgies. However, the Vatican remains firmly opposed to same-sex marriage, Reuters and AFP reported.

The Vatican document says that such a blessing will not legalize the marriage, but will be a sign that God welcomes everyone.

The blessing “will never take place simultaneously with or in connection with the civil rites of the union,” according to a doctrinal dicastery document approved by Pope Francis.

Priests must decide on a case-by-case basis and “must not hinder or prohibit the Church’s approach to people in any situation where they can seek God’s help through a simple blessing.”

Catholic priests in Germany have been giving such blessings for two years, but so far without the Vatican’s approval.

In 2021, more than 100 churches in Germany organized wedding ceremonies open to “everyone who loves one another” – gay, lesbian or straight, thus joining the “love wins” initiative launched by priests, deacons and volunteers.