The Spanish archdiocese of Seville has corrected a priest's decision to refuse a young woman with Down's syndrome the role of godmother.
In a statement on Tuesday, the diocese leadership apologised for "the damage caused by the handling of this situation" and called for reconciliation and dialogue in the parish.
It went on to say that the church should consider adjustments in its teaching of the faith that "promote the inclusion of all people in the church community, based on pastoral care and prudence".
There is no restriction in church law on baptismal sponsorship by people with disabilities.
However, the pastor of the small parish of Benacazón in Andalusia, southern Spain, did not believe that a woman with Down's syndrome could be given the role of godmother.
"Victory for inclusion"
The parents of the child to be baptised, outraged by this decision, had launched a petition that was handed over to the archdiocese in Seville.
The archdiocese has now backed the family and declared that the relative with Down's syndrome can of course act as godmother.
Meanwhile, the girl's father celebrated the archdiocese's decision on social media "as a victory for inclusion, respect and the dignity of all people with disabilities.
Because faith is not measured by ability, but by the attitude of heart, dedication and love that every person brings to their actions."
The baptism, which was postponed due to the dispute, is now scheduled to take place on 31 January 2026 - with a different clergyman.