Pope Francis spoke with L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics and their supporters for years before letting priests bless same-sex couples. But the move’s timing also owed something to its conservative opponents.
Tag: Roman Catholic Church
Pope Francis Allows Priests to Bless Same-Sex Couples
A church official said the blessings amounted to “a real development” that nevertheless did not amend “the traditional doctrine of the church about marriage.”
Vatican Sentences Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu to Over 5 Years for Fraud
The case raised questions about financial mismanagement at the highest levels of the church, and about Pope Francis’ power.
Vatican Eases Rules on Preserving Cremation Ashes
Families may keep a “minimal” part of the ashes in a place of significance to the deceased, but the remainder must be placed in a sacred place such as a cemetery.
Got Climate Angst? At the U.N. Summit, There’s a Quiet, Spiritual Place.
A pavilion at COP28 offers a space for meditation, prayer and something that feels lacking, at times, from global warming talks: hope.
Pope’s Critics Feel the Sting After His Patience Runs Out
Vatican observers see a leader more willing to crack down on those seeking to derail his agenda for the Roman Catholic Church.
Reports Say Pope Francis Is Removing Cardinal Burke’s Vatican Home and Salary
Word of the action against Cardinal Raymond Burke came after the prelate’s increasingly pointed critiques of the reform-minded pope.
Pope Francis Cancels Trip to COP28 Climate Summit After Getting Sick
Days after the pontiff was forced to slow down because of a flu, his doctors advised him to not travel to Dubai for COP28. Francis has made climate activism a hallmark of his papacy.
Texas Bishop Loudly Critical of the Pope Is Removed
Bishop Joseph Strickland was a highly prominent figure among traditionalist American Catholics who see Pope Francis as too liberal.
Vatican Says Transgender People Can Be Baptized and Become Godparents
A document approved by Pope Francis lays out nuanced guidance in keeping with his vision of a more inclusive church, but it does not amount to a policy change in the church, the Vatican says.