John-Henry Westen: Why is this approach not possible in the Church, to give blessings for homosexual unions?
Bishop Athanasius Schneider: It is, in fact, simply a play with words, deceit in a cunning way, because we are not little children who do not understand this. The fact is evident: a same-sex couple represents the propagation of the sin of homosexuality, a sin against nature. They are joined because of same-sex erotic attraction, which is against nature and reason. It is a message that we can live this way and exercise sexuality in this manner, which is contrary to the creation of God and His will.
Since it is against God’s creation and wisdom, it is extremely harmful to the people themselves. Such blessings, even if they do not call it marriage but say they are a couple attracted by the same sex, are essentially blessing sin. We have to name things by their name. To bless this is completely naive and unrealistic, because it encourages a near occasion for sin.
A singular person who struggles with same-sex attraction can ask for a blessing to receive grace to live chastely. But a couple cannot receive a blessing together without contradicting the will of God. This is a very cunning, deceitful method, and the Church can never cooperate in supporting same-sex unions. Such blessings are, in themselves, a real abomination.