Rome CNN —A new ruling by the Vatican’s doctrine department has opened the door to Catholic baptism for transgender people and babies of same-sex couples. Regarding transgender people, the document says a person who identifies as transgender can be baptized like any other adult, “as long as there is no risk of causing scandal or disorientation” to other Catholics. Children who identify as transgender can also be baptized if “well prepared and willing,” it says. The document cites several sermons by Pope Francis for the ruling. In each circumstance, the priest is asked to use “pastoral prudence” in deciding whether to allow a transgender person’s participation.

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Persons: Rome, Giuseppe Negri, Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium, ”, Francis DeBernardo, Pope Francis ’, ” DeBernardo Organizations: Rome CNN, New Ways Ministry, Catholic Locations: United States