Bishop Strickland responds to Pope Leo’s remarks on homosexual ‘blessings’

In response to recent remarks concerning moral priorities and the blessing of those in irregular unions, I offer this clarification for the good of the faithful.

The Church, entrusted with the truth of the Gospel, cannot bless sin. She is called always to bless persons – to call every soul to repentance, healing, and holiness – but she must never act in a way that suggests approval of actions or relationships that are contrary to the law of God.

The recent emphasis on distinguishing between “formal” and “informal” blessings, as referenced in Fiducia Supplicans, has led to widespread confusion among the faithful. A blessing is not merely a casual gesture; it is a sacred act that involves God’s favor. If such a blessing is given in a way that appears to affirm a relationship that is not ordered according to God’s design, then it risks causing scandal and leading souls into error.

Likewise, the suggestion that there are “greater and more important” moral issues than sexual morality must be understood with great care. The Church has never taught that sins against chastity are of little importance. On the contrary, Sacred Scripture and the constant teaching of the Church affirm that sexual morality touches deeply on the dignity of the human person, the sanctity of marriage, and the proper ordering of love.

It is true that justice, religious freedom, and the dignity of every human person are grave moral concerns. But the moral law is not divided into competing categories where one truth can be set aside for another. All truth comes from God, and all sin – whether against justice, charity, or chastity – separates the soul from Him.

True unity in the Church cannot be built upon ambiguity or the softening of difficult truths. It is build upon Jesus Christ, who is “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Charity demands that we speak the truth clearly, even when it is difficult, so that souls may not be misled but led to conversion and eternal life.

As a successor of the Apostles, I remain committed to proclaiming the fullness of the Catholic faith – without compromise, without confusion, and always with charity for every person, calling all to the freedom that comes from living in the truth of Christ.