Pope Francis has suggested he would be open to having the Catholic Church bless same-sex couples on a 'case-by-case' basis.

This was in response to a number of requests sent to the Pope ahead of a global gathering about the Church's future.

When asked to clarify, the Pope stated any request for a blessing should be treated with 'pastoral charity'.

UK correspondent Gavin Grey says there's debate as to whether this stance is progressive, as the Pope said same-sex relationships were 'objectively sinful'.

LISTEN ABOVE

Pope Francis has suggested he would be open to having the Catholic Church bless same-sex couples on a 'case-by-case' basis.
This was in response to a number of requests sent to the Pope ahead of a global gathering about the Church's future.
When asked to clarify, the Pope stated any request for a blessing should be treated with 'pastoral charity'.
UK correspondent Gavin Grey says there's debate as to whether this stance is progressive, as the Pope said same-sex relationships were 'objectively sinful'.
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.