Pope Francis has once again rocked the Catholic world with an announcement that women who have had abortions and feel contrite are now able to seek forgiveness from all priests during the church's upcoming "Year of Mercy."

During the new temporary policy, which will be in effect from December 8 until November 20, will suspend the power bishops have to prohibit priests from

offering forgiveness and giving the clergy the full authority to absolve abortions. Previously, those who have sought abortions were condemned for the act considered a grave sin, and were considered excommunicated-with only the hope that a bishop would consider lifting the ban.

The Pope, who is consistently referred to as one of the more progressive ones to head the Catholic church, made the announcement just weeks ahead of his highly anticipated visit to the United States.

It is the latest move by the Pope that has earned him some praise, after he previously took a more progressive approach to welcoming gay and lesbian worshippers into the church, as well as divorced Catholics.

The new declaration has earned the Pope praise on social media, mainly from women, who see the act as a progressive stance that is much more fair:

Others felt the decision was praise-worthy, but criticized the fact that it would only be valid during the Year of Mercy and not full-time, and also blasted it for being an issue that was addressed in the first place:

And others criticized the decision completely, saying it violated their beliefs as Catholics and Pro-Life advocates:

How do you feel aboout the Year of Mercy? Sound off in the comments section below.

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