Fiducia Supplicans: Blessing Sinners or Blessing Sin? - Dec 27 - Homily - Fr Terrance

Fr Terrance gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Dec 27, 2023, on how the new declaration "Fiducia Supplicans" from the Vatican on blessing same-sex couples can best be understood by the principle, "sinners can be blessed, but not their sin." And this will avoid much of the misunderstanding, controversy, and scandal that so many are experiencing over this.
The reaction to the Church's teachings regarding blessings for same-sex couples and individuals in irregular situations, as outlined in the recent Church document "Fiducia Supplicans" highlights the importance of having a teachable spirit when reading Magisterial documents, as opposed to being closed and suspicious. As Jesus says in Luke 10:16 - "He who hears you, hears me; he who rejects you, rejects me." bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/10?16 Father also discusses the distinction between blessing individuals and blessing their unions, clarifying that while the Church cannot bless sinful unions, it can bless individuals who show a willingness to live according to God's will. He encourages prayers for people in irregular situations and those opposing Church teachings, emphasizing the need for conversion and understanding.
Fiducia Supplicans - www.vatican.va/roman_curia/co...
Michael Lofton, Line-by-line Commentary - Pope Approves Gay Blessings?Making Sense of the Crisis in the Catholic Church - • Pope Approves Gay Bles...
00:00 - Introduction Christmas Reflections and Redemption
00:27 - Understanding 'Fiducia Supplicans': Church's Stance on Blessing Irregular Unions
00:57 - Embracing a Teachable Spirit in Church Teachings
01:44 - St. Thomas Aquinas' Perspective on Reception of Teachings
02:08 - Interpreting Magisterial Documents in Context
02:48 - Maintaining Church Unity: Respecting Vatican and Papal Authority
03:03 - 'Fiducia Supplicans': Defining Marriage and Morality
03:58 - Clarifying Church's Position on Blessing Same-Sex Unions
04:48 - Distinguishing Between Persons and Their Relationships in Blessings
06:16 - Addressing the German Bishops' Approach to Same-Sex Unions
07:29 - The Role of Prudent and Fatherly Discernment in Blessings
Ave Maria!
Mass: St. John the Evangelist - Feast - www.catholic.org/saints/saint....
Readings: usccb.org/bible/readings/12272...
1st: 1jo 1:1-4
Resp: psa 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12
Gsp: joh 20:2-8
More on the Readings: airmaria.com/r?m=1224
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and KZbin: • Fiducia Supplicans: Bl...
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[@franciscanfriars]

One of the main points of Fr Terrence in this video: if you listen to those who treat the document Fiducia Supplicans (FS) as being heretical, then you will come to the same conclusion. If you wish to listen to those who try to understand what the pope is saying, rather than foment anger at him, then I good place to start is with Michael Lofton. Here he gives a Line-by-line Commentary of FS - Pope Approves Gay Blessings? - Making Sense of the Crisis in the Catholic Church - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJvFopV_fs6Wp80 Remember it is “Bless the sinner not the sin” as the title says. Summary of Card Fernandez’ clarification on how couples are blessed (not approved) and unions are not: - In Liturgical Blessings - - Subject - Couple - Object - Marriage (union) - In Spontaneous Blessings - - Subject - Couple - Object - Persons of the couple And it is this spontaneous blessing that Pope mentions. Hat tip: @AKdon68 In other words, a couple asks for a spontaneous blessing, but the blessing is given to, and received by, the individuals without any suggestion of legitimization, but rather to give grace for conversion. Many blessings are not for approval but only to give grace, such as those that are given spontaneously at the altar rail when a person has his arms crossed or when absolution cannot be given in a confessional a much less efficacious blessing is given, again only to confer some graces to get out of sin, not to approve sins. Here is the text Fiducia Supplicans - www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_ddf_doc_20231218_fiducia-supplicans_en.html Father also mentions a good way to handle a couple who approaches for a blessing: “If a couple who's clearly homosexual comes up to me and says, Father, will you bless our relationship or bless our marriage, I'd have to say, no, I can't, sorry, I can pray for you. Do you want to say, an Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be, together? I can do that. If you're open to it, I can give you a blessing that God will help you to live holier lives and draw closer to Him, but I can't bless your relationship, I'm sorry.” So this is very quick, is not an inquisition, is educational for the couple, defuses any scandal onlookers, and the priest then knows if the intention is right. And, even if they had originally come with the wrong intention and then they were still willing to get the blessing with that sort of qualification (which clearly says their relationship is wrong and needs serious improving) then that small agreement and movement toward repentance would be very pleasing to God, even if a more complete repentance would be even more pleasing. God accepts baby steps and rewards with more graces to take further steps. God bless - Friar Roderic

[@Marilyn-np2xh]

Father Chris Alar of Marion Fathers said by blessing the couple you are in fact blessing the union, and the Marion fathers came out with a statement that they are not following this document. He said they should be blessed as individuals. He also said this document creates a new, third type of blessing just for this purpose.

[@franciscanfriars]

"Father Chris Alar of Marion Fathers said by blessing the couple you are in fact blessing the union, " Most unfortunate. The pope says otherwise. I will go with him and I recommend you do too. God bless - Friar Roderic

[@ADDM1531]

That is very much a mischaracterization of the directive that the MIC's put to their priests. They did not say they are "not following the document." They are simply directing their priests to give spontaneous blessings individually so as to avoid confusion that the Declaration says to take pains to avoid. The Declaration allows people to be blessed as couples, it doesn't mandate they be blessed that way. That is not disregarding the document at all.

[@AKdon68]

In Liturgical Blessings - Subject - Couple Object - Marriage (union) In Spontaneous Blessings - Subject - Couple Object - Persons of the couple And it is this spontaneous blessing that Pope mentions.

[@franciscanfriars]

Thanks for the clarification. Good news. God bless - Friar Roderic

[@chidmania8485]

The document clearly states that these blessings should not in any way be confused with blessing of a union. So if anybody feels that the blessing, in spite of best intentions, still gets confused with the blessing of a marriage, then don't give the blessing. Problem solved. So what are they complaining about?

[@badapplenow]

Father, thank you for your good intentions. With all due respect, i’m not a scholar, nor do I claim to be smarter nor better than anyone else. The only knowledge I have comes from being a Catholic all my life, educated at home, in school by Franciscans nuns and of course the Church. The problem is not the blessing of an individual looking to strengthen his/her faith to fight sin, but instead this new and “improved” blessing; calls for couples whom have the slightest intention of changing their ways. When we go to confession we say, forgive me Father for I have sinned. We come because we’ve repented and are looking for forgiveness and reconciliation. The goal and expectation is to sin no more. God bless.

[@pauljacob99]

Why have a directive on blessing practicing homosexual couples when each individual can be blessed separately at anytime without this directive, and can be done without causing scandal? This is the primary issue I have with your explanation. Also, if Francis intended the meaning you suggest he could just as easily explain that in the document.

[@MagdusiaPoProstu]

@pauljacob99 No, they can’t be blessed “at any time” - discernment of situation and will to work on self-improvement on a path to redemption of each person by pastor of community is crucial in the eye of Canon Law of Church.

[@yvonnestyer7197]

❤❤❤ God, please open my eyes to your truth, open my ears to hear your truth, and open my heart to feel your love. Amen 🙏🙏🙏

[@jessewilliams15]

Your charity exceeds mine. May God bless you all & have mercy on us.

[@truthandfreedomtherapy83]

Thank you, father, great homily, God bless you

[@TheHCGTube]

If a document is so ambiguous that it requires so much explanation, it's probably not a great document. It also doesn't talk about repentance. I read it. I don't like it. If nothing has changed, as so many like to repeat, then why this document exists? Why Fernandez didn't just reply, "the church teaching stands" ? Instead he made a whole thing about irregular couple blessing, which cannot be done anyway if you follow God's Will. So what are we doing here, except create confusion?! According to what was just explained, then Fr Martin who rushed to bless a gay couple holding hands is clearly in error.

[@quivalla]

This is the best explanation. We need to pray for those in authority that go beyond what this document outlines and what is contrary to the Spirit. We need to pray for those who are throwing reviling accusations at one another. Rejoice in your faith and pray to the Almighty through Christ our Lord, that we too don't have to go through the hour of testing.

[@Beatrice.Ndungu]

Fr Terrance speaks softly and gently and it lands on the heart. The airwaves are occupied with loud noise. This gentleness is direct from the Holy Spirit. A pastor who can lead one to heaven....

[@ciaranclancy3296]

You should hear him giving a roasting 🔥 🔥 😗 if it was Christmas eve I'd have the turkey out , he could do both of us at the same time , Two for the price of One 😗 , isn't that right Fr Terrance 😀 🇮🇪 ☘️

[@fr.terrancechartier601]

@@ciaranclancy3296 👍😊

[@Greylock21]

@@ciaranclancy3296 Hello friend, it's Happy 😊 I hope you had a Blessed Christmas and an upcoming peaceful New Year!. Long time no hear. Kindly, may I ask for a few prayers, please? I pray for you, for health,and for the wonderful prayer warriors of our dear Fr Terrance 🙏 ❤️. After listening to a variety of priests, I turn to the Bible and the Rosary and The Chaplet 3pROSEm are my heart desires when I feel lost or sad. SR CATHERINE CROCKETT too!!♣︎♡☆. KEEP THE FAITH 🌹 🌹 .🌹 KEEP FATHER SO CLOSE INTHOUGHT AND PRAYER. SATAN IS VERYBUSY LATELY.

[@ruthdias9897]

Thank you Father for explaining it so clearly and beautifully! God bless you. I pray that our Catholic Church remains united these testing times and ask God to give everyone wisdom so that we don’t misinterpret teachings or spread false things but rather try to discern what the teachings convey. God bless you!

[@tummelplatz763]

Thank you, Father. God bless you and our holy Catholic Church!

[@MichaelColeman2]

Thank you Fr. Terrance for this teaching homily.

[@WT-Sherman]

Thank You Father for addressing this. Here is a major pitfall with this new blessing. There are too many priests, bishops and even cardinals in the Church today who disagree with Church teaching concerning same sex relations. I know this because they have expressed it publicly. These clergy are likely to use these blessings to confirm these poor souls in their sins. This is the world we live in. A way to avoid abuse and scandal would be to bless them individually. The allowance of blessing as couples is not worth the potential dangers. In a bygone era this could have worked, but that ship has sailed.

[@smasmith57]

I too do not understand why the blessing of couples is encouraged when blessing the individuals is a viable option.

[@billburtis8616]

What a rare thing for a priest to mention these topics like sin and homosexuality in a homily. Most homilies I have heard in the last 50 years ask simply to be more tolerant and forgiving.

[@jesi.o1502]

I don't understand, I got more confused. Where is the rebuke of sin as Christ would say, "woe unto you"? About scandal against the church, the church is Christ and to stand with Christ confirms the church.

[@AveMaria.GratiaPlena]

And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. This is why I believe the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church will not fall. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us.

[@phil2d2]

Perfect!!!! Thank God that many of His Priests still receive, hold to, and communicate that very truth that comes to Mother Church through the Holy Spirit especially when so many turn a cynical ear toward it and a heretical shoulder away from it. Thank you, Father!!!!

[@learningCatholic]

Thank you for helping, thank you for being faithful to the magisterium and not causing more confusion like those fomenting schism are doing. I just thank you, from my heart.

[@francesadornato6113]

❤thankyoy Father God bless you 🙏🌹

[@catholicintoeternity5679]

Our dad blessed us all; after the daily rosary, all the 14 of us, not because we were saints, but because he wanted us to become saints...

[@CB-ou6gc]

As a lay person I don’t understand why is there a continuity of doctrine when: Great number of Bishop and priests are against it. When did any former Pope practice or express it in its teachings? Is this new blessing necessary? In my understanding It is not a development of doctrine, but a rupture.

[@franciscanfriars]

Thanks for your desire to understand the Church's teachings amidst various conflicting voices and interpretations. It's important to recognize that "Fiducia Supplicans" is primarily a pastoral letter as the title indicates. Historically, Popes and Church leaders have adapted pastoral approaches to meet the needs of the times while remaining faithful to core doctrines. This document doesn't introduce new doctrine but rather provides a pastoral approach to blessing individuals, not unions, in line with Catholic teaching. As FS 31 and other sections highlight, the focus is on extending God's grace to individuals, aiding them in their spiritual journey without legitimizing any state contrary to Church teachings. The goal is to welcome and guide all towards a deeper relationship with Christ, mirroring His compassionate outreach without compromising the truth of the Gospel. I hope this helps - Friar Roderic

[@CB-ou6gc]

@@franciscanfriarsThank you!! Let us all keep praying. I truly appreciate your response.

[@JustMe-ej6nm]

Thank you, Fr. God bless you.

[@anaserrot6620]

Gracias padre. Hermosas e inteligentes palabras.

[@annatownsend5129]

Thank you Fr. Terrance. It really helps me a lot. I am praying that others will stop spreading confusion which creates division within our Catholic Faith 🙏🙏🙏. Thank you always for your great wisdom.

[@bettybella2417]

God bless you Rev Fr Terrence. Perhaps clarity is needed to any documents. May The HOLY SPIRIT instruct the minds & hearts of all the faithfull and may JESUS' teachings always be our WAY, TRUTH & LIFE. GOD LOVES THE SINNER BUT NOT THE SIN.❤

[@amalghalie3973]

God bless you Father ... Thank you for explaining it to us all ... God have mercy on us all ... Especially Our Catholic Churches... I pray Pope Francis stays true to Our Lord God His Gospel and His Church

[@nelsonsarmento]

If it is impossible to bless the couple without blessing their union, should we also conclude that the 1917 Code of Canon Law commands the blessing of the rejection of Catholicism, since it allows the blessing of non-Catholics? 'Benedictiones [...] dari quoque possunt [...] etiam acatholicis' (c. 1149)

[@franciscanfriars]

Good point. God bless you - Friar Roderic

[@jamesnoonanyoutube]

So if the actual document itself says that the Church does not have the power to bless a homosexual union, then that takes away one of the biggest concerns (or accusations) that I'm hearing. It's clear that it's blessing the people within the union, rather than blessing the union, which is sinful. So it's not turning away from the teachings of the bible, but at the same time is not turning someone away from blessing just because they are blind to their own sinful ways.

[@lalaithan]

The document actually states clearly that they have to be aware that they are on the wrong path and that they desire to grow towards the right path, so those "blind to their own sinful ways" won't be blessed. "In such cases, a blessing may be imparted that not only has an ascending value but also involves the invocation of a blessing that descends from God upon those who-recognizing themselves to be destitute and in need of his help-do not claim a legitimation of their own status, but who beg that all that is true, good, and humanly valid in their lives and their relationships be enriched, healed, and elevated by the presence of the Holy Spirit. These forms of blessing express a supplication that God may grant those aids that come from the impulses of his Spirit-what classical theology calls “actual grace”-so that human relationships may mature and grow in fidelity to the Gospel, that they may be freed from their imperfections and frailties, and that they may express themselves in the ever-increasing dimension of the divine love."

[@Peter-vl6go]

This sermon needs to be minted!

[@norabongiorno6197]

Merry Christmas 🎄

[@errolbetita1298]

God bless the Catholic Church oh Lord...God bless you father

[@gloriaanaruma1279]

I'm here Father Brazil 🇧🇷 Jundiaí SP City

[@josephuzelac971]

Ave Maria! Thank the Holy Family for a clear, orthodox, and charitable presentation of the Holy Father's teaching in this sermon.

[@mcjmj1624]

As always, simple yet profound. Thank you, Fr. Terrance, for your level-headed assessment of Fiducia Supplicans, along with a reminder of what it means to be a true Catholic layman or woman.

[@AKdon68]

M Lofton mentions the below in his video. In Liturgical Blessings - Subject - Couple Object - Marriage (union) In Spontaneous Blessings - Subject - Couple Object - Persons of the couple And it is this spontaneous blessing that Pope mentions.

[@TrixRN]

Amen!🙏❤️ Sinners need all the help we can get, no matter the sin. Love R&T’s line by line reading of FS.

[@franciscanfriars]

Yes this is a quick short summary of what Michael Lofton and Cardinal Fernandez are saying thank you. I will include this in a pinned comment comment, God bless.

[@AKdon68]

​@@franciscanfriars Thank you for standing to the truth. God Bless

[@bornincarmel]

Thank you Father for addressing this.

[@mazikode]

Was this document from the Majesterium was it from Cardinal Fernandez?

[@lilwaynesworld0]

Cardinal Fernandez is the head of the Magesterium and obviously answers to the Pope is ultimate head of the magesterium it is a magesterium docucument

[@freddiefreihofer7716]

@@lilwaynesworld0 I believe it's "Magisterium", friends.

[@mazikode]

Ok I see, I just thought it would have to be in consultation with all the other Bishops. Thanks

[@roselynenyanda1757]

*then why specifically name same sex* if its just blessing people then everyone is people regardless..

[@HazzTube]

Hi Father, Bringing to light that this will be abused: but, any person that really just wants a personal blessing should be blessed makes good sense. This was a tough one to "swallow". I am so grateful for your comments. They helped the medicine go down😊

[@tomiikazi]

This document popped my bubble and got me on the internet to look for more information. And I am just now slowly realising what is actually happening in the Catholic Church from the world perspective. I think this document does much more than what it says. It also reveals how people and spiritual leaderd think, how are they (un)able to properly react to the teaching of magisterium. The lack of docility, humility... It is a sad realisation, but I am glad it is happening. I stand with you popesplainers! Stay strong!

[@TrixRN]

I always say Thank you when someone calls me a Popesplainer.😁 Yes, the true intentions & beliefs re the Magisterium are coming out. At least we’re seeing who to avoid & who to follow.🙏❤️

[@MrMercytres]

Thank you, Father, your explanation ❤.

[@CarlosGonzales-bd6uf]

You just said you agree with the document and then at the end you said you can’t bless their relationship. Isn’t that the main point? Saying you can bless their “relationship”? Am I missing something? Can you bless their “relationship” or can’t you?

[@jeffseng6385]

Thank you Father Terrance. You were given a fire to try and put out. I really agree with your comment on what is heard is determined by the state of the hearer. Once you have turned against someone emotionally it makes it hard to keep a clear head. Though I must say that this particular event didn’t happen in a vacuum. There have been many things that are hurtful to trust and a clear understanding of the faith coming from that direction. However your call to check ourselves (what spirit are we filled with)is such a good admonition. I wish you and your brothers the very best in the new year. 😊

[@imeldataaffe433]

From Ireland. God bless you Fr. Excellent talk with great clarity on "Fiducia Supplicants" 🙏☘️

[@powlly5738]

Amen 🙏

[@jacquelinenguyen759]

When the scribes who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with these people, they asked His disciples, “Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus told them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

[@joehall11]

After reading this document I do not see the condoning of sin or the blessing of sin. Yes, the sinner can be blessed in seeking to repent and struggling with sin and to be closer to living a godly life. and away from sin. We are all sinners and all struggle with sin even the pope has this struggle. If individuals come to the church asking for a blessing of their sinful unions the church will turn them to repent of sin and not bless their sin. Jesus never condoned sin and always called those he encountered to repentance and godly life.

[@gregchrysostom2193]

Congratulations on actually reading the document and simply letting it say what it says. You're way ahead of most of its critics ...

[@athanenwere4533]

God bless you for saying the bitter truth.

[@franciscanfriars]

Well said! God bless - Friar Roderic

[@ameriefeingold6172]

Well said, Father! Praying for you, our Pope, Holy Mother Church and all the clergy!

[@Greylock21]

Amen 🌹 🙏 🌹

[@AB50yrslater]

Fr's comment about being already defensive about documents from Pope Francis struck me. I've been guilty of that, no matter how justified I may feel. If I get booped in the nose, I might fall for it a second time, but by the third time I'll have my guard up ready to block another attempt. It's the same with utterances from Pope Francis. I now expect to wince when a statement is issued. This latest declaration is problematic for me mainly because of the words 'couple' and 'union', and the lack of a call to repentance; but it benefits me to reflect on how easily I choose justice over mercy. I'm trying to discern the Truth in all of this and avoid giving my opinion and preference more weight than they deserve. As Fr said, the Church wants to guide people closer to God while knowing abuses will unfortunately occur, as we've seen in so many other areas of Church life. According to Father Terrance, the Church is willing to take that chance to save souls. Paradoxically, many of us are wondering if perhaps the abuse of this declaration might lead to souls being lost, too, and, if the intention for releasing the declaration was good, why was it not more clear? What is clear is that this declaration puts far more of a burden on priests in its implementation than on any of us lay people. We all need to know our Faith and pray for our priests, bishops, and the pope, as well as for those to whom the declaration is directed, and for those of us offended by the document.

[@fr.terrancechartier601]

What great observations. God bless you!

[@joshuaslusher3721]

Wonderful shepherding! Thank you father!

[@annashepard6337]

Thank you! Pray for this good priest.

[@Greylock21]

FR TERRANCE TRULY IS A HOLY PRIEST. BLESSED MOTHER KNOWS HIS HEART SO WELL. OLD FRIEND, Happy from MA. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL. MISS YOU 🌹 🌹 🌹 👋

[@fr.terrancechartier601]

@@Greylock21 God bless you, Theresa! You're in my prayers. We miss you as well! 🌹

[@godfirst2072]

Amen. God bless you for standing up for what is right!

[@apologeticasanmiguelarcangel]

Thank you father for this homily and for your ministry

[@veronicaarrieta2618]

Thank you Father Terrance. God bless you !!!!

[@fawn1785]

Fr. Terrance delivers a very clear and worthy interpretation.

[@forrestl5982]

God Bless you, Father! Thank you for defending the catholic church!

[@dominicast1825]

Thank you, Father, for the clarity and the charity. Over here in Australia we are likewise concerned at how document is being used, unread, as fodder to flame the fires against the Pope and the Magisterium of the Church by both extreme sides. And it seems the numbers in both camps are growing due to their well-funded and loud media outlets. Voices who are simply 'Catholic', who read documents from the Church with a mindset of trust, can feel isolated - so your homily is welcome and needed. May our Holy Fathers, St Francis and St Dominic, ever guide and bless you!

[@sandramckay4678]

Thank you Father Terrance. I love being a Catholic. Your homily helps to understand this document more clearly. I pray for all our Bishops, Priests and the Holy Father every day. God Bless you. 🙏📿♥

[@jairocv]

Thank you Father! A very good homily!

[@vincentcorso1688]

God Bless you Fr Terrance You are on path to sainthood.

[@JimCvit]

Completely get it and understand it. It's taken time. It would've been nice to include what can't be done and give an example but it is what it is. Thinking further about it, for those priests and bishops who abuse this will not only bring condemnation upon those they're blessing but also themselves just as St Paul mentions about receiving the Eucharist unworthily.

[@gregchrysostom2193]

Some of the things that can't be done are expressly stated in the document. I would read it, it's quite beautiful.

[@katherinengan4898]

Father you are assuming that those who voiced concerns have animosity towards the Vatican. Perhaps some, yes. However, the vast majority of the laity only want clear, non-ambiguous teachings of the gospel truth. All this document does unfortunately is causing confusions, confusions, confusions for the laity. Please have mercy on us simple folks.

[@fr.terrancechartier601]

Thank you for that, Katherine. The faithful need to listen to people who know how to harmonize Church documents & teachings. The document itself creates no confusion ... it's the commentators who create confusion. I read the document, I understand it, I know what's being asked of me as a priest ... others read the document, they don't understand it, they don't know what's being asked of them ... & then, in their pride & lack of faith (frankly), they go & blurt that out to the whole world. THAT'S what's creating confusion, not the Vatican. It's like reading the Old Testament. In the OT, there are some episodes where it's hard to reconcile them with the idea of an all-loving God. Now, should I listen to those people who say: "You can't reconcile certain biblical passages with the loving God of the New Testament", or should I listen to those people who say: "Yes, you can," & then they proceed to show me how you can do that? Be wise about who you're listening to & who you're not listening to & you'll be at peace. God bless!

[@christinatabe9374]

Thank you for standing for the church

[@hervedavidh4117]

This is how every bishop, priest should approach the document. I get lay people less informed be troubled, but cardinals and priest should know better and reason like this. Thanks Father ! We are used to recite the act of contrition during confession, but now, we should be used to recite the Act of faith.

[@thomaspeckham]

fr. excellent homily. ?, certainly the blessing will be abused as you say, (fr. james martin) but perhaps those opposed to the document fear just that, an abuse which promotes scandal unnecessarily. yes, the Eucharist is subject to abuse, but again, is it not the obligation of the priest to deny communion out of christian charity to the sinner who persists in public scandal? thank you.

[@franciscanfriars]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Yes, fear of abuse is high on everyone's mind. So yes, the responsibility of priests to deny communion to those in public scandal is a parallel to the careful approach required in administering blessings. FS outlines that blessings are to be given with discernment, ensuring they don't imply approval of a situation contrary to Church teachings. The document upholds the principle that while we reach out in love and mercy, this does not equate to affirming actions or situations that are contrary to the Gospel. As Fr. mentions in the homily: “If a couple who's clearly homosexual comes up to me and says, Father, will you bless our relationship or bless our marriage, I'd have to say, no, I can't, sorry, I can pray for you. Do you want to say, an Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be, together? I can do that. If you're open to it, I can give you a blessing that God will help you to live holier lives and draw closer to Him, but I can't bless your relationship, I'm sorry.” So this is very quick (not an inquisition), is educational for the couple, defuses any scandal to any onlookers, and the priest then knows if the intention is right. And, even if they had originally come with the wrong intention and then they were still willing to get the blessing with that sort of qualification ( which clearly says their relationship is wrong and needs serious improving) then that small agreement and movement toward repentance would be very pleasing to God, even if a more complete repentance would be even more pleasing. God excepts baby steps and rewards with more graces to make further steps This pastoral approach is about extending Christ’s compassion and calling for a conversion of heart, in line with the Church's mission to guide all souls towards sanctity. God bless - Friar Roderic

[@thomaspeckham]

friar roderic, thank you for your reply and have a blessed new year.@@franciscanfriars

[@Sir_Elms]

Amen Thank you for the teachings and clarification God bless us all.

[@deirdrehastings5672]

Thank you Fr. Terrance 🙏

[@hesterchan2378]

Blessings are given at the end/close of Every Holy Mass. If the goal of the 'Blessing' is the conversion of sinners, then all needs take place is persons attend Holy Mass and participate whole heartedly with Reverence and humble sincerity of heart.🙏❤

[@franciscanfriars]

Thanks. Yes, such participation in mass is, indeed, helpful. However, I am not sure I fully understand your point. God bless - Friar Roderic

[@arryserrano4373]

For Our Holy Church 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@paulc3749]

Thank you Father, you are an excellent speaker for Christs teaching

[@AK-nw7tr]

Dia duit. Imparted most TRUTH with charity for all pastorally. May God reward you and appreciate the clear practical example.

[@blackwood3243]

Spot on, Fr.

[@hairbylauram]

Bless the sinner, not the sin. And we are all sinners in some shape or form.

[@franciscanfriars]

Indeed! :)

[@albertaowusu3536]

Peter has spoken. The Church is not going to ignore them nor throw them off the top of a building. Can't wait for a month where The Pope's intention is to pray for them. God will always protect His Church.Thank you Father.

[@MaryseUsher]

Pure gold! Thank you and may God bless you abundantly, Father Terrance. Explains the great divide between the faithful and the schismatic.

[@joshdalf9493]

Father, I know that much has changed (kind of? Perhaps not in reality, but in perception) since this video with the clarifications. Perhaps it would be worth you reaching out to Fr Alar? Idk if they have actual authority to do what they proclaimed for their order; but it makes me a little uneasy, and would like someone knowledgeable to talk to them privately

[@fr.terrancechartier601]

Thanks for the comment. I don't really know what Fr. Alar's current position is, but if people can't listen to the clarifications by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the interviews that Card. Fernandez has given on this subject, & the recent comments of the Holy Father which just all reaffirm what's said here in the video, then there's not much I can do for them. God bless!

[@dgbx6]

Thank you so much for this.

[@sapentium]

Level headed commentary on a confusing declaration that is open to abuse and misinterpretation

[@billyoreilly9116]

Thank you, and God bless you 🙏

[@ciaranclancy3296]

Thanks Fr Terrance, God Bless you and the Franciscans 🙏 , all iv heard on certain sites recently is everyone talking their own meaning out of this document, and as usual the socks are been cut off the Holy Father (so to speak), I'm no scholar or dr of the Church but I think it's as clear as day what the document is saying, and I certainly don't think Our Blessed Lord 🙏 is going to look to favourable on those who are cutting the socks off Our Holy Father, No Sir he will not ! ⚠️ , God Bless Our Holy Father 🙏 and Prayers as Always for him 😊 , & you and the Franciscans too Fr Terrance, I'll always lend the Franciscans my ears , iv waiting a while to hear your take on this 👍 , God Bless you ALL Fr Terrance 🙏 and Thanks again 👍 🇮🇪 ☘️

[@arthurmaglieri1824]

Why then doesnt the document mention that the people should stop their behavior and repent...also to live chastely...big omission

[@catholicintoeternity5679]

We're were told during Catechism and so we should know how to live a good life... No one but ourselves can live (our) own personal life. The pope can't visit 1.3 trillion Catholics and hold them by the hand to guide them. The parents have the first responsibility.

[@franciscanfriars]

The document Fiducia Supplicans clearly stipulates that these blessings are to be sought (and given) to confer graces to help get away from their current sinful lifestyle. For instance: “Therefore, those who invoke God’s blessing through the Church are invited to “strengthen their dispositions through faith, for which all things are possible” and to trust in “the love that urges the observance of God’s commandments.” FS 10 Blessing, in general, are primarily for giving graces to help the receiver grow closer to God and follow His commandments. “At the same time, one should not prevent or prohibit the Church’s closeness to people in every situation in which they might seek God’s help through a simple blessing.” FS 38. Clearly, if they are seeking God's help then it's going to be help to get out of their sinful lifestyle because God won't help anyone do anything else. Again “In a brief prayer preceding this spontaneous blessing, the ordained minister could ask that the individuals have peace, health, a spirit of patience, dialogue, and mutual assistance-but also God’s light and strength to be able to fulfill his will completely.” FS 38 Since God's will is for everyone to live a saintly life, then it is clear that It is referring to walking away from their sinful lifestyle. And again “...there is no intention to legitimize anything, but rather to open one’s life to God, to ask for his help to live better, and also to invoke the Holy Spirit so that the values of the Gospel may be lived with greater faithfulness.” FS 40 The values of the Gospel are to get away from sin and live a holy life thus walking away from homosexuality. So this is very clear, especially when this is a pastoral document as the suitable states. And, as you can see, whatever source you're getting your news from, it is clearly giving you fake news. So, as Fr. Terrance suggests, stay away from those websites and channels that cannot reconcile this document with past teachings or refuse to even try. And go to channels like Michael Lofton because he is very good at giving an objective overview of how this document squares with Church teachings. Here (kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJvFopV_fs6Wp80), he gives a line-by-line commentary, so there's no room for confusion or misconstruing the document. Unfortunately today, such objectivity really scares people, and this is doubly puzzling regarding conservatives who used to be so objective. I hope this helps. - Friar Roderic

[@nicholasgeranios]

Great Homily Father!

[@JavierMartinez-yo8ti]

CCC 2357 is clear. Please read it carefully, particularly last sentence. 2357 Homosexuality refers to relations between men or between women who experience an exclusive or predominant sexual attraction toward persons of the same sex. It has taken a great variety of forms through the centuries and in different cultures. Its psychological genesis remains largely unexplained. Basing itself on Sacred Scripture, which presents homosexual acts as acts of grave depravity,140 tradition has always declared that "homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered."141 They are contrary to the natural law. They close the sexual act to the gift of life. They do not proceed from a genuine affective and sexual complementarity. Under no circumstances can they be approved.

[@franciscanfriars]

No is denying any of this. They are in sin. Bless the sinner, but not the sin. At least read the title of the video. God bless. - Friar Roderic

[@freda7961]

Thank you, Father!

[@srelizabethmaryhermit6450]

Many thanks for your clear, succinct explanation. It is most helpful.

[@MagdusiaPoProstu]

Excellent comment on a subject in true light of Jesus. If there are any clouds, go directly to the source, send a letter, don’t shout out loud just to gain popularity and YT followers like some bishops did in this case - politics of power. Thank you father! God blessed all His creations (even an error can be stopped and self-pleasure seeking behavior improved). Blaming “theories on genes” for excuses on many issues have already been long time expelled from a science as a main factor. Instead of repeating same old excuses, just know and take responsibility for yourself that humans can be attracted to both genders (yes, only two, my apologies to all confused ones, all teenagers had to go through biological identity crisis- it used to be called simply a puberty, that’s all - before ego and inability to choose with acceptance the way biology shapes us,got into minds of hormones confused ones). Pray for all here listening/ reading/ thinking/ feeling to open their hearts to Jesus and the Holy Spirit and do not stone the confused or priests like many times before. I pray for humility and repentance. 🙏💗💯💪

[@michaelbarbecho2096]

Thank fr.T I hope and pray that all Catholics will know the truth. Our Church can not bless sins. Only the sinners can be bless. We must always love and for the Pope the bishops priests deacons and nuns.

[@G-MIP]

Thank you father.

[@gloriaanaruma1279]

I have heard the same words here in Brazil from good Priest like Pather Gabriel Vila Verde and Father Pablo Henrique and about that in Ontario Canada 🇨🇦 Fr Mark Goring

[@catholicintoeternity5679]

Oh! Thank you dear Lord... Most impressive coming from a young priest indeed... Exactly what I have been trying to explain for a long while now. The opposite of blessing someone is putting a curse on that person. Again...Thank you dear Lord.

[@TheOther12523]

Excellent homily Father, thank you!

[@mariemorrison6278]

This homily is spot on. Thank you Fr Terrance.

[@virgil015]

Absolutely wonderful Father. Thank you. God bless.

[@KetchupReturns]

Any chance you could put the written transcription in the description ? I'm french and I am a spiritual animator for a conference of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. I would like to translate the homily for them, along with sharing the link to this video and the link to the french version of fiducia supplicans.

[@franciscanfriars]

Thanks! KZbin's "Show Transcript" button is at the bottom of the description of all videos now. Just scroll way down to the bottom of the description. You can then toggle the timestamps on or off and then copy and paste it into a word processor. The transcript is one that I uploaded and fairly carefully checked. As such, KZbin's automatic translation will work better than on most videos. But the actual transcript is available through the Show Transcript button, God bless - Friar Roderic

[@KetchupReturns]

Thank you very much ! God bless !

[@gregoryknight2928]

Thank you Fr. Terrance for a balanced non-sensational homily reviewing the teachings of Fiducia Supplicans that doesn't seek to stoke fear and anxiety and threatens where this is going to lead the Holy Roman Catholic Church. Where is it going to lead? I think Section IV The Church is The Sacrament of God's Infinite Love shows us exactly where it will lead. Especially in Section IV paragraph number 44 which states: " Any blessing will be an opportunity for a renewed proclamation of the kerygma, an invitation to draw ever closer to the love of Christ. As Pope Benedict XVI taught, “Like Mary, the Church is the mediator of God’s blessing for the world: she receives it in receiving Jesus and she transmits it in bearing Jesus. He is the mercy and the peace that the world, of itself, cannot give, and which it needs always, at least as much as bread.” Anything that invites all of God's children to an invitation to grow closer to the love and mercy of Christ -- in this world that seeks only to divide and separate us -- is a good thing, is an act that truly reflects Christs mandatum at the last supper to "love one another, as I have loved you." May the Light and Love of God's truth and blessings continue to shine upon and through you and your ministry, the Church, and all God's children. May the Holy Father, Pope Francis be protected from all harm as he continues to lead the Church reinforcing the Church's role of being the Sacrament of God's Infinite Love. May God's love and mercy shape the hearts of those who proclaim being God's faithful and yet seek only to judge and and condemn and incite division against those who threaten to be banners of God's love and mercy. May their hearts be shaped to humbly walk the path of God's love and mercy, knowing none of us ever 100% achieve such compassion.... but celebrating the fact that Christ is always there to welcome us when we admit our errs and return to the way of love and mercy He showed us.

[@smithcatholicart3450]

AMEN! Thank you so much for the voice of true tradition, fidelity, and discernment!!

[@jamesziegler-xl4bz]

Amen

[@gg-zx8hf]

My interpretation of the declaration of the blessing was that of blessing people as is, extending God's mercy towards poeple and not their union or relationship. Thank you Fr. for clarifying this declaration by the Pope. Many people and religious has taken this in the wrong way creating more separation of the church and great animosity towards the Pope. God bless.

[@tonyhayes9827]

Thank you Fr. Terrence. I've been avoiding people's rants about the Pope and his latest `controversy.' When I saw that your were speaking about it, I stopped and listened. It's really pretty straight forward and good and not saying anything new. It seems to just be spelling out the concept of; 'judge the sin but not the sinner'. Always tricky........