Vatican City: The Vatican has come forward to support Pope Francis' recent directive allowing priests to bless same-sex couples. This decision has been met with criticism from bishops worldwide, who have condemned the doctrine as contradictory to traditional teachings.

The newly implemented policy clarifies that while priests can bless same-sex couples, this action does not signify an endorsement of same-sex marriages or unions. The Vatican emphasized that the blessings are not to be interpreted as an approval of such relationships, which it continues to regard as "irregular situations."

Despite the Vatican's stance that the policy neither condones same-sex marriages nor endorses such unions, several bishops across Europe, Africa, and other regions have reportedly vowed not to adhere to this directive. Their refusal indicates a significant divergence of opinions within the Church's hierarchy on the topic of same-sex relationships.

This development follows a series of debates within the Church about its approach to evolving social issues, including the rights and recognition of same-sex couples. The Vatican's defense of Pope Francis' decision marks a notable, albeit nuanced, shift in the Church's engagement with contemporary social dynamics.