The Roman Catholic Church, under the leadership of Pope Francis, has taken a significant step forward in its inclusivity by announcing that transgеnder individuals can now receive baptisms, serve as godparents, and participate as witnesses in religious ceremonies. This decision comes after Bishop Jose Negri of Brazil approached the Church’s Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith with six thought-provoking questions regarding LGBTQ+ individuals and their involvement in matrimony and baptisms. In response, the Dicastery published a comprehensive three-page document in Italian that provides clarity on the Church’s stance.

The response from the Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith affirms that transgеnder individuals, including those who have undergone hormone treatments and gender reassignment surgery, can receive baptism under the same conditions as other believers. However, it’s important to note that the Church recommends avoiding situations that may generate public scandal or disorientation among the faithful. This caveat seeks to strike a balance between acceptance and the preservation of traditional values.

In an unprecedented move, the Catholic Church also acknowledges that transgеnder individuals can serve as godparents. This role holds significant spiritual significance within the Church, as godparents are entrusted with the responsibility of nurturing the faith of the baptized individual. By extending this privilege to transgеnder individuals, the Church demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and recognizes the diverse ways in which individuals can contribute to the spiritual growth of others.

Furthermore, the Dicastery’s document affirms that transgеnder individuals can participate as witnesses in religious weddings. This recognition of their presence and involvement in sacred ceremonies not only fosters a sense of belonging but also highlights the Church’s evolving understanding of gender identity and expression. The updated stance on transgеnder individuals was signed by Argentine Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández and received the explicit approval of Pope Francis himself.

Transgender people can be godparents at Roman Catholic baptisms, witnesses at religious weddings and receive baptism themselves, the Vatican's doctrinal office said, responding to questions from a bishop https://t.co/QSiGflppt3 pic.twitter.com/x0L01TzK1T

— Reuters (@Reuters) November 9, 2023

Pope Francis has consistently expressed a desire for the Church to be more welcoming and less judgmental, emphasizing the importance of embracing all individuals, regardless of their sеxual orientation or gender identity.