Vatican Embraces Inclusive Stance on Transgender Baptism and Godparent Roles
In a groundbreaking move, the Vatican has announced that transgender individuals can now receive baptism under the same conditions as other believers, as long as it avoids causing "public scandal or disorientation."
The statement, signed by Pope Francis and Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, responds to inquiries regarding the LGBT community and their position within the Catholic church from Brazilian Bishop José Negri, reflecting a broader effort by the Pope to foster inclusivity within the Catholic Church.
The document also states people who identify as transgender can be named as godparents, including those who have undergone hormone treatment and gender reassignment surgery. However, priests have the discretion to refuse if there is a risk of "scandal, undue legitimisation, or disorientation." Jesuit priest Fr James Martin praised the development, emphasising its significance in recognizing transgender individuals as integral members of the Catholic community.
While the Vatican's guidance on transgender baptism and godparent roles is clear, it maintains a less distinct approach to other questions raised by Bishop Negri. Regarding same-sex parents seeking baptism for their child, the Vatican suggests that the priest's decision should be based on the "well-founded hope" of the child's Catholic upbringing.
The document also acknowledges the possibility of same-sex couples receiving blessings from priests but reaffirms the Church's stance on considering such relationships "objectively sinful." However, it does allow members of the LGBTQ+ community to serve as witnesses at a Catholic marriage.
This updated stance aligns with Pope Francis's recent suggestion that same-sex couples could receive blessings, but that they will continue to not recognise same-sex marriage.
The questions posed by Bishop Negri are summarised below:
Can a transgender person be baptized?
Can a transgender person be a godfather or godmother at baptism?
Can a transgender person be a witness at a wedding?
Can two “homoaffective” persons be counted as parents of a child who must be baptized and who was adopted or gained by other methods such as surrogacy?
Can a person who is “homoaffective” and cohabiting be godfather to a baptized person?
Can a “homoaffective” and cohabiting person be a witness at a wedding?
