The Vatican’s recent statement allowing the blessing of same-sex couples outside of liturgical rituals continues to spark reactions around the world. The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) recently spoke out on this issue, firmly expressing its opposition to any form of blessing of same-sex couples.
In an update published this Saturday, the Congolese episcopate also recommended ordained ministers, catechists and pastoral animators not to give blessings to heterosexual couples in an irregular situation. This measure aims to avoid any confusion and prevent the assimilation of this blessing to the sacrament of marriage.
The Democratic Republic of Congo, with around 40% of its population identifying as Catholic, remains a stronghold of Catholicism in Africa. The Catholic Church there has played a significant role in public life, education and political affairs for decades.
It is important to note that the Vatican’s historic decision to allow the blessing of same-sex couples outside of liturgical rituals has sparked divergent reactions within the Catholic Church. Some priests and clergy have expressed enthusiasm, seeing the move as a step toward greater inclusion and compassion toward LGBTQ+ people.
However, CENCO’s position reflects firm opposition to this decision. The Congolese episcopate highlights the need to preserve the traditional teachings of the Church and maintain a strict understanding of the sacrament of marriage.
Beyond the CENCO reaction, it is also interesting to note that some influential figures within the Catholic Church, such as Jesuit priest James Martin, supported the Vatican’s decision. These positions show the diversity of opinions within the Church on this sensitive issue.
In this context, it is clear that the Vatican’s decision to authorize the blessing of same-sex couples outside of liturgical rituals continues to spark debate and reflection within the Catholic Church. It remains to be seen how this issue will evolve and how it will be received in different regions of the world that are strongly influenced by the Catholic religion.