
Image by Bishop John Doerfler, via Facebook
CV News Feed // In response to Fiducia Supplicans, the Bishop of Marquette wrote a pastoral letter stating that blessings given to people in irregular situations must be strictly given in private.
On December 18, the Vatican issued Fiducia Supplicans, a declaration on the theology of blessings. In the text, the Vatican said that priests could perform blessings for couples in “irregular situations” and “same-sex couples.”
Immediately, the declaration caused confusion and controversy as commentators and media outlets asked whether the declaration was a sign of support for those in sex relationships from Pope Francis.
In his pastoral letter, Bishop John F. Doerfler of Marquette stated that he was writing in light of the confusion surrounding Fiducia Supplicans and affirmed that the Church’s teaching on marriage had not changed.
“Since its release, the document has been misunderstood. The Church’s constant teaching on marriage and sexuality remains firm,” said Doerfler.
The document states that these blessings “should never be imparted in concurrence with the ceremonies of a civil union, and not even in connection with them. Nor can it be performed with any clothing, gestures, or words that are proper to a wedding.” In accordance with this directive, Doerfler said that these blessings should always be conducted in private.
“Blessings for people who are seeking help from God and who are in irregular situations should be given privately,” said Doerfler.
Doerfler said that these blessings should be conducted in private in order to avoid scandal and confusion.
“In granting such spontaneous blessings, great care is to be taken to avoid scandal or to give the impression of condoning a lifestyle contrary to Church teaching. There is much confusion about the meaning and purpose of marriage and sexuality,” said Doerfler.
He noted that these blessings could work contrary to the Church’s mission if they are not done in private, as they could lead to confusion and misguide people.
“We lack charity, and we do not serve people if we foster confusion or lack clarity in our teaching and pastoral practice,” said Doerfler.
