Vatican Opens Door to Catholic Baptism for Transgender Individuals and Children of Same-Sex Couples in New Ruling.

 Children of same-sex couples and transgender individuals can now be baptized Catholics by the Vatican's Doctrine Department.Read full article 

In a recent ruling, the Vatican's doctrine department permits Catholic baptism for transgender individuals and babies born to same-sex couples. 

The guidelines, issued in response to questions by Brazilian bishop Giuseppe Negri, outline that transgender individuals, including those who have undergone gender reassignment, can be baptized, serve as godparents, and witness Catholic weddings under specific conditions.

 Children of same-sex couples are eligible for baptism if there is a "well-founded hope" of Catholic education. 

The document emphasizes the need for repentance for sins, acknowledging the church as inclusive but stresses pastoral prudence in decision-making for priests.

 LGBTQ+ advocacy groups see this as a step forward but call for further progress.

DeBernardo cautions that the lack of pastoral prudence in implementing the new guidelines may lead to the establishment of exclusionary policies. 

He highlights concerns about the focus on the potential for causing scandal, particularly in the context of individuals in "stable, marriage-like relations" well-known within the community. 

DeBernardo encourages church leaders to follow Pope Francis' example of an inclusive approach, expressing hope for the application of the guidelines to promote welcome rather than maintaining restrictive practices.