The Vatican has issued a strong message of support for single mothers, affirming their right to participate fully in the sacraments of the Church.
Cardinal Victor Fernandez, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, addressed the issue in a letter, approved by Pope Francis, in response to concerns raised by Bishop Ramón Alfredo de la Cruz Baldera from the Dominican Republic.
The letter underscores the importance of the Eucharist as a source of spiritual nourishment and consolation, particularly for single mothers who have chosen to bring a child into the world despite challenging circumstances. Pope Francis himself has spoken on this issue in the past, saying in 2016 that “the Church must be particularly concerned to offer understanding, comfort, and acceptance,” rather than hastily imposing rules that could alienate the faithful.
Cardinal Fernandez, echoing the Pope’s sentiments, remarked that the faithful should appreciate and value the efforts of single mothers, who have “welcomed and defended the gift of life they carried in their wombs.” He stressed that being a single mother should not be a barrier to receiving Communion. He also highlighted the need for a pastoral approach that is compassionate and understanding, especially in cases where single mothers face extreme hardships.
The letter also criticized the hypocritical attitudes of some within the Church who have denied sacraments to these women and their children. Recalling a homily by Pope Francis, then Cardinal Bergoglio, Fernandez quoted, “They are the hypocrites of today. They have clericalized the Church.”
In 2012, Pope Francis addressed a single mother during a video conference, affirming her bravery and dignity in choosing life for her children: “You are a brave woman because you were able to bring these two daughters into the world.”
The emphasis on understanding and acceptance over judgement is a clear indication of the Church’s approach to pastoral care!
Let’s pray for single mothers 🙏
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