Pope Francis just changed EVERYTHING — well, temporarily, at least.
The leader of the Catholic Church announce that during the “Year Of Mercy,” women who have had an abortion will be able to receive forgiveness from any priest.
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This is HUGE.
That’s because usually having an abortion is grounds for automatic excommunication. AND the only religious official who could reverse it is a bishop.
However, because of what Pope Francis declared on Tuesday, priests will be able to forgive women who have had the procedure — but this is only effective during the upcoming “Year of Mercy,” which starts on December 8 and goes until November 20 of next year.
Pope Francis said in a statement:
“The tragedy of abortion is experienced by some with a superficial awareness, as if not realizing the extreme harm that such an act entails. Many others, on the other hand, although experiencing this moment as a defeat, believe that they have no other option.
“I think in particular of all the women who have resorted to abortion. I am well aware of the pressure that has led them to this decision.”
While we firmly believe in a woman’s right to choose, we’re happy the Pope is being so openminded.
And Vatican officials say that this easier forgiveness process could even continue AFTER the “Year of Mercy” — we really hope so!
[Image via AP Images.]
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