This declaration should not invoke scandal nor confusion for the people Of God. It is issued to ensure that all of God's children know they are loved and accepted. Ask any priest and they will share how often people seek a spontaneous and informal blessing from them. It is one of the many joys of priesthood! Those requesting such blessings seek God's closeness, healing. and strength. Therefore, the declaration is quite specific in noting that such blessings are never offered in concurrence with the ceremonies of a civil union or in connection with them, nor are they given with any vestments or words proper to a sacrament or a liturgical rite.