Catholic Bishops in Nigeria have voiced their opposition to Pope Francis’ stance on the blessing of same-sex couples, expressing their disagreement during the formal opening of the 2024 First Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) on Sunday in Abuja.
Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji delivered a speech at the event, highlighting their concerns that the Pope’s position could be interpreted as an endorsement of same-sex marriage.
Ugorji emphasized that statements from the Holy See should ideally foster unity and communion on matters of doctrine, morals, and liturgy. However, he lamented that the recent declaration, Fiducia Supplicans, issued by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in December 2023, had caused division and discord within the Church.
While acknowledging that the document prohibits liturgical blessings for same-sex couples, Ugorji pointed out its recommendation for spontaneous pastoral blessings for couples in irregular situations, including same-sex couples.
He highlighted the ambiguities in the declaration, which led to mixed reactions of acceptance, skepticism, and outright rejection from Episcopal Conferences and individual Bishops worldwide.
Ugorji expressed the dismay and disbelief felt among faithful Catholics in Nigeria and other parts of Africa, as well as globally, regarding the possibility of priests blessing same-sex couples engaged in sinful unions without causing confusion and scandal.
In response to this confusion, the Bishops reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the teachings of the Church, based on Holy Scripture and Tradition. They emphasized the Church’s stance that homosexual acts are gravely depraved, intrinsically disordered, and contrary to natural law.
While affirming God’s unconditional love for sinners and the call to repentance, the Bishops reiterated that there is no possibility of blessing same-sex couples or unions in the Church in Africa. They emphasized the importance of continuing to teach the faithful about the will of God and the moral teachings of the Church.