Vatican office provides guidance on sacramental inclusion of transgender and homosexual people

In July 2023, the Vatican’s doctrinal office, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF), responded to several questions posed by Bishop José Negri of Santo Amaro, Brazil regarding the participation of transgender and homosexual people in the Sacraments of Baptism and Marriage.

The document was signed by Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandéz, the Prefect of the DDF, and approved by Pope Francis on October 31.

The DDF’s responses reflect a nuanced pastoral approach that aims to balance openness and inclusion with proper formation and avoidance of scandal.

Regarding transgender individuals, the DDF affirmed that a transgender person who has undergone hormone therapy or sex reassignment surgery can be baptised under the same conditions as any other person, unless there is a risk of causing public scandal or confusion to the faithful.

The permanency of Baptism’s sacramental character was emphasised – even if serious sins prevent the fruitfulness of grace, the mark of Baptism remains forever and disposes one to later receive grace through repentance. Children with transgender identity issues may also be baptised if properly prepared and willing.

Pope Francis was quoted to stress that Baptism is the “door” that allows Christ to dwell in a person and the person to be immersed in Christ’s mystery. The DDF highlighted the Pope’s words that “the doors of the sacraments should not be closed for any reason,” and Baptism, above all, should remain accessible.

At the same time, the DDF explained that when doubts exist about an individual’s moral state or disposition toward grace, the faithfulness of God’s unconditional love should not be forgotten. The Church must always call the baptised person to live out the full implications of their Baptism.

Regarding the role of godparent at Baptism, the DDF indicated that an adult transgender person may fulfil this role under certain conditions, though it is not an automatic right. Prudent pastoral care requires not allowing it if scandal, or disorientation of the ecclesial community would occur.

The responses also clarified that current Church law contains nothing prohibiting a transgender person from serving as a witness at a Catholic wedding.

Turning to same-sex couples, for an adopted child or one conceived through assisted reproduction to be baptised, there must be well-founded hope that the child will be raised Catholic.

Regarding baptismal godparenthood, the DDF explained that homosexual people in stable, marriage-like unions known to the community may not be suitable, though each situation requires judicious discernment.

Safeguarding the sacrament and its fruitful reception must be balanced with upholding the Church’s teaching and the godparent’s witness within the community. If prudent concerns exist, another family member could stand in as guardian of the child’s Catholic upbringing.

Finally, the DDF reiterated there is currently nothing barring homosexual persons in relationships from serving as witnesses at Catholic weddings.

While details require case-by-case pastoral discernment, the DDF’s responses indicate a cautious openness to greater inclusion of transgender and homosexual persons in sacramental roles, centred on the permanence of Baptism and avoiding scandal.

This reflects an evolving discussion occurring in light of Pope Francis’ emphasis on accompaniment, inclusion and synodality. The Church continues to balance doctrine and compassion in its ministry to LGBTQ Catholics.