Pope Leo Speaks Out Against Cardinal Ordering Blessings for Gay Couples

Pope Leo XIV spoke out against Cardinal Reinhard Marx, who had instructed priests to give blessings for same-sex couples.

The matter of blessings for same-sex couples has divided the Catholic Church. Marx, who has served as archbishop of Munich and Freising in Germany for nearly two decades, has instructed priests to adopt the "Blessings Give Strength to Love," which includes blessings for "irregular couples,” according to Catholic outlet EWTN News.

Pope Leo addressed that decision during a press conference on Thursday.

"The Holy See has made it clear that we do not agree with the formalized blessing of couples, in this case, homosexual couples, as you asked, or couples in irregular situations, beyond what was specifically, if you will, allowed for by Pope Francis in saying all people receive blessings," he said.

Still, he said he believes there are greater issues facing the church than that of sexual "morality."

"In reality, I believe there are much greater, more important issues, such as justice, equality, freedom of men and women, freedom of religion, that would all take priority before that particular issue. The Holy See has already spoken to the German bishops," he said.

He also warned that the matter "can cause more disunity than unity."

"We should look for ways to build our unity upon Jesus Christ and what Jesus Christ teaches," the pope said.

This is a breaking news article. Updates will follow.

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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 2:05 PM.