Today we're talking about the Pope allowing some blessings of same-sex couples, Texas's new state

immigration law, natural disasters around the globe, and other top news for Wednesday, December 20th.

Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with the poor over today.

Here's the quote of the day.

Great things have small beginnings.

Sir Francis Drake.

Let's get started with some espresso shots.

Pope Francis has allowed priests to bless same-sex couples with some caveats.

Monday's controversial declaration out of the Vatican stated that people seeking God's love and mercy shouldn't be subject to an exhaustive moral analysis.

The Declaration also reaffirmed the Church's traditional definition of marriage as the

exclusive, stable, and indissoluble union between a man and a woman.

And said blessings of same-sex couples cannot happen during a civil union,

coincide with a wedding mass, or even use any clothing, gestures, or words that are proper to a wedding.

Some celebrated the news as a step forward in the Church's ministry for LGBTQ people,

while others decreed it as heresy, saying the church cannot bless sinful relationships.

Meanwhile, some LGBTQ advocates are upset it reaffirms the church sees homosexual relationships

as inferior to heterosexual relationships.

An announcement like this is sure to spark heated debate.

As you discuss it with those around you, remember that how you say it matters.

Speak the truth in love so that you reflect the patience and compassion of our God.

James 3, verse 17 says, but the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, open to reason,

full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering without pretense. Texas is taking matters into its own hands.

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