African Catholic bishops, united under the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), have unequivocally rejected Pope Francis’ endorsement of blessing same-sex couples, asserting that it goes against the will of God.
In a statement, SECAM, the umbrella organisation for Catholic bishops across Africa, expressed that the Vatican’s approval of same-sex blessings is not appropriate. The statement reinforced the Church’s consistent teaching, describing homosexual acts as “intrinsically disordered” and contrary to natural law.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, President of SECAM, conveyed that the message had received approval from Pope Francis, emphasising their commitment to maintain communion with the head of the Catholic Church.
Last month, Pope Francis stirred diverse reactions by declaring that priests should be allowed to bless same-sex couples. However, the Vatican clarified that such blessings should not become part of regular Church rituals and should not be associated with civil unions or weddings. The Vatican reiterated its stance that marriage is regarded as a union between a man and a woman.
Globally, 64 countries criminalise homosexuality, with approximately half of them located in Africa. The Pope’s pronouncement has ignited a varied range of responses from both within the Catholic Church and the LGBT community.