Pope Francis has given priests the power to forgive mothers who've had abortions, and doctors who have performed them.
It's after the pontiff declared 2016 would be a Holy Year of Mercy, where priests will be given authority to forgive mortal sins.
Women who have an abortion and doctors who perform them can, in some circumstances, be excommunicated from the Catholic Church.
Next year for the first time, priests will have the authority to forgive mortal, as well as venial (lesser) sins.
Pope Francis has said the church must be "an oasis of mercy", and that "The Church's very credibility is seen in how she shows merciful and compassionate love."
An Italian cardinal, Velasio De Paolis, has said the Catholic Church still recognises abortion as a sin, and hopes Pope Francis' announcement does not cause confusion.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
