Global reaction among bishops to the Vatican’s declaration that priests may now bless same-sex couples appears most divergent in some European and African nations.

Some Catholics see the Vatican declaration as a step forward for L.G.B.T. people in the church. Others are worried about the possibility of schism.

“This is an early Christmas present for the Catholic Church and for so many people who have felt that God really isn’t accompanying them,” Father James Martin says on this episode of ‘Inside the Vatican.’

The Vatican’s decision to authorize the blessing of homosexual and remarried couples has triggered mixed reactions.

Some L.G.B.T.Q. people may say this declaration doesn’t go far enough. Others will think it goes too far. Both groups, however, can agree that this is a significant change, Father James Martin writes.

In a new Vatican document, Pope Francis opened the door for ‘blessing couples in irregular situations and same-sex couples.’