African Catholic bishops have collectively decided to decline support on the Vatican’s recent declaration allowing blessings for same-sex couples.
This decision, backed by Pope Francis, comes in response to the Declaration Fiducia Supplicans issued by the Vatican on December 18, which introduced the possibility of blessing “irregular” couples, including those in same-sex unions.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the president of the Symposium of the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), highlighted concerns of “confusion” and a “risk of scandal” among the African faithful in a letter released on January 11.
This stance reflects the bishops’ adherence to traditional teachings on marriage and sexuality within the Church, as well as the cultural context of many African communities where homosexuality is still illegal and socially unacceptable.
In their response, the African bishops reaffirmed their commitment to pastoral care for all members of the Church. They emphasized that the Church’s doctrine on Christian marriage and sexuality remains unchanged and expressed the view that blessing same-sex unions in Africa could cause confusion and contradict the cultural ethos of African communities.
They made it clear that same-sex unions are contrary to the will of God and therefore cannot receive the Church’s blessing.
The SECAM statement, while maintaining fidelity and communion with the Pope, underlined the need for pastoral assistance to all church members, including those in irregular situations, and stressed the importance of treating individuals with homosexual tendencies with respect and dignity.
