blessings

While the Church has voted to move to introduce prayers for same-sex couples, clergy will also be allowed not to lead such blessings if they feel they do not want to.

"By starting Paws Across America, my newfound financial blessings will be shared with the animals that need it most," she said.

It is also common for followers to touch these statues for blessings - meaning they are also rarely guarded - leaving them wide open for thieves.

They defined the American Way in their own terms and brought the blessings of full citizenship to countless millions for whom it had earlier been a mirage.

Although the process is meant to remain confidential, leaks suggest one major problem is intransigence by members of the panel on one issue that is currently bitterly dividing the Church; blessings for same-sex couples.