The Vatican’s doctrine department has issued new guidelines allowing Catholic baptism for transgender individuals and infants of same-sex couples.

These rules, in response to questions from Brazilian bishop Giuseppe Negri, state that transgender adults and children can be baptized, provided it doesn’t cause scandal.

The document also permits transgender individuals, including those who’ve undergone gender reassignment, to be godparents and witnesses in Catholic weddings.

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Children of same-sex couples can be baptized with the hope of a Catholic upbringing, though living in homosexual relationships is still considered a sin.

The ruling emphasizes pastoral prudence and has been seen as a step toward inclusivity by some, but critics argue it may lead to exclusionary policies if not applied with care.