If you're confused about the latest Vatican document “Fiducia Supplicans," Timmerie and LMFT Michael Gasparro unpack it for you so you can get some clarity and understanding. The big question? Can same-sex unions be blessed by the Church? The answer, straight from the Vatican's pen, is a nuanced exploration of blessings, sacraments, and Church teachings.

🔍 The Misconception: Media outlets are buzzing with the idea that the Catholic Church now endorses same-sex marriages or blessings for these unions. But hold your horses! The document from the Vatican clarifies this isn't the case.

🙏 Blessings for All: Yes, anyone can receive a blessing - that's a big, resounding yes from the Church. But here's the kicker: a blessing is not an endorsement of lifestyle choices that go against Church teachings. It's more about seeking God's grace and mercy, regardless of one's life situation.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family and Faith: The document dives deep into the history and theology of blessings, from parents blessing their children to priests bestowing blessings in their first year of priesthood.

📜 Sacrament vs. Blessing: A significant distinction is drawn between sacraments (like matrimony) and blessings. Sacraments have specific doctrinal and liturgical frameworks, while blessings are more about invoking God's presence in various life situations.

🙌 Blessing ≠ Approval: The Church emphasizes that a priestly blessing is not an acknowledgment or condoning of lifestyles contrary to Church teachings. It's about praying for God's intervention and grace in one's life.

The document is crystal clear - same-sex unions or relationships cannot and will not be blessed in a way that suggests the Church's approval. 

💬 The Takeaway: The Church is not green-lighting same-sex marriages or equating them with sacramental marriages. Instead, it's reiterating the universal call to God's mercy and grace while maintaining doctrinal fidelity.

📣 Message to the Media: The media is clearly not helping you to get the truth. You know that it's often about advancing an agenda. Timmerie and Michael Gasparro criticize mainstream media for blurring the lines and misrepresenting the Church's stance, urging you to dive into the document themselves for a clear understanding.

In short, the Church is standing firm on its teachings, while also extending the olive branch of blessings to all, in the hope of guiding everyone closer to God's love and truth. 🕊️✨