Statement of the Diocese of Fall River
December 18, 2023

“Sharing God’s blessing is at the heart of the mission of the Church. Fiducia supplicans, the declaration issued today by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and approved by Pope Francis, has brought clarity to how to impart those blessings.  The declaration solidly affirmed the Church’s teaching on marriage, reiterating that it does not have the power to impart a liturgical blessing on irregular or same-sex couples or to bless their union. It can, however, in pastoral charity offer a blessing outside the context of a sacramental rite or its official rituals on anyone to invoke God’s help and mercy in their lives if the individuals seek His intercession and divine assistance. “

From Vatican News: Doctrinal declaration opens possibility to bless couples in irregular situations

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
Office of Communications