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Image Credit: Vatican

In a significant doctrinal shift, the Vatican's Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith declared that transgender people can now serve as godparents at Roman Catholic baptisms, participate in religious weddings as witnesses, and receive baptism themselves. Responding to inquiries from Brazilian Bishop Jose Negri, the Vatican provided a nuanced stance on the involvement of LGBT individuals in sacraments. While offering acceptance to transgender individuals, the document was less clear on same-sex couples and their role in baptism.

The Vatican emphasized pastoral prudence in decision-making, reflecting Pope Francis's efforts to foster inclusivity without altering core Church teachings. The responses, signed by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández and endorsed by Pope Francis, mark a noteworthy step toward acknowledging and embracing the presence of transgender individuals within the Catholic community.