“Homosexuals have a right to be a part of the family. They’re children of God and have a right to a family.

In"Francesco", a documentary that premiered today in Rome, Pope Francis said he supports civil unions for same sex couples. His position is the first public comment and it is differentfrom the Vatican's traditional position. He has previously expressed support for civil unions.

“Homosexuals have a right to be a part of the family. They’re children of God and have a right to a family. Nobody should be thrown out, or be made miserable because of it. What we have to create is a civil union law. That way they are legally covered."

In an article, the Hill quoted Sarah Kate Ellis, the president and CEO of Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, saying the pope "joins millions" in "recognizing that LGBTQ people should be protected, not persecuted."

"This news should send an undeniable message to Catholic families with LGBTQ people that all family members are deserving of acceptance and support," Ellis said. "Pope Francis’ public approval is a fundamental step forward at a time when LGBTQ acceptance around the world and across religions is expanding and rightfully becoming the norm.”

The Catholic New Agency reported that Pope Francis shared a story in which he encouraged "two Italian men in a same-sex relationship to raise their children in their parish church."

Reaction, so far, has been typical on Twitter from most Catholics and Christians.