The Vatican declaration restated traditional church teaching that marriage is a lifelong union between a man and woman. But it allowed priests to offer spontaneous, non-liturgical blessings to same-sex couples seeking God’s grace in their lives, provided such blessings aren’t confused with the rites and rituals of a wedding. READ: Vatican says no heresy in allowing blessings for same-sex couples after pushback by some bishopsIn his statement, Ambongo said it wasn’t appropriate for African priests to offer such blessings because of the scandal and confusion it would create. READ: EXPLAINER: How can Catholic priests bless same-sex unions? He admitted that it may not apply to some parts of the world and that further “pastoral reflection” might be necessary.
