More Catholic dioceses in Germany are rejecting national guidelines for blessing same-sex couples, saying they conflict with Vatican teaching.

On August 5, Augsburg, Eichstätt, Passau, and Regensburg joined Cologne in refusing to adopt the Segen spendet Liebe Kraft (“Blessing Gives Strength to Love”) resource, which supports blessing same-sex and “irregular” couples.

The dioceses argue the guidelines contradict Fiducia Supplicans, a 2023 Vatican declaration that permits only “brief, spontaneous” blessings, not structured or ritualized ceremonies.

The Diocese of Augsburg criticized the German handout for promoting “blessing ceremonies” that include readings, music, and processions.

A spokesperson for Cologne said their focus is to “assure people of God’s closeness and companionship” while staying within Church teaching.

Some dioceses, however—such as Mainz, Trier, and Limburg—have embraced the guidelines.

Bishop Peter Kohlgraf of Mainz encouraged pastoral staff to use them, while Berlin’s Bishop Heiner Koch said he will not bless such unions personally but will not penalize priests who do so “after a pastoral conversation.”

The Vatican has not commented.