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Vatican Doctrine Chief Faces Backlash Over Graphic Book and Same-Sex Blessings

Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez's controversial book and approval of blessings for same-sex couples spark worldwide criticism and calls for his removal.

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VATICAN CITY, VATICAN - SEPTEMBER 30: Newly appointed cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández poses during the courtesy visits to the New Cardinals at the Apostolic Palace, on September 30, 2023 in Vatican City, Vatican. Pope Francis holds a consistory for the creation of 21 new cardinals, the consistory falls before the start of the Synod on Synodality, set to take place in October. (Photo by Antonio Masiello/Getty Images)
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, right, receives his biretta from Pope Francis as he is elevated in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican on September 30, 2023. Photo: AP

Overview

  • Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, the Vatican's new doctrine chief, is under scrutiny for a book he wrote as a young priest, 'The Mystical Passion: Spirituality and Sensuality', which graphically describes orgasms.
  • Fernandez, known as Pope Francis' theological ghostwriter, has already stirred controversy in the Catholic Church with his approval of blessings for same-sex couples and allowing transgender people to serve as godparents.
  • The book, published in 1998, has resurfaced amid heightened criticism from conservative and traditionalist Catholics following Fernandez's approval of blessings for same-sex couples.
  • Several bishops conferences around the world, including those in Africa and Poland, have rejected the declaration approving blessings for same-sex couples, leading Fernandez to issue an explanatory note insisting the declaration wasn't heretical.
  • Conservative Catholic newspaper, The Wanderer, has called for the immediate removal of Fernandez from his post at the Doctrine of the Faith, stating that the revelations about his book confirm the direction of Pope Francis' pontificate.