Recent news has caused quite a stir in the Catholic world, as the Vatican released a statement proposing additional blessings for same-sex couples. However, African Catholic bishops will not follow this directive and have declared their refusal to carry out these additional blessings.
In a letter published last Thursday, the president of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), Congolese Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, cited “confusion” and the “risk of scandal” as reasons for this refusal. The Vatican statement opens the possibility of blessing couples whose relationship is not “valid” according to the Catholic Church, including unmarried couples, divorced and remarried couples, and same-sex couples.
However, this decision caused controversy among Catholics, particularly in Africa. In Zambia, for example, Catholic bishops believe the declaration should be subject to further consideration and not implemented due to the country’s legislation which prohibits homosexual unions and activities.
The Vatican statement also raised concerns in other African countries where the condition of LGBTQ+ people is often difficult. In some countries, homosexuality is still criminalized and can result in prison sentences or even the death penalty. In these contexts, blessing same-sex couples would be seen as reckless and could endanger the safety of those involved.
Despite this, the African Catholic Church has affirmed its commitment to continue providing pastoral assistance to all its members, while emphasizing that its doctrine on Christian marriage and sexuality remains unchanged. This position emphasizes that the Catholic Church still views marriage as being between a man and a woman, but also recognizes the need to offer pastoral support to all the faithful, whatever their circumstances.
This controversy reflects the different realities and perspectives that the Catholic Church must face in a constantly changing world. While some Catholic communities are open to developments in understanding sexuality and human relationships, others remain committed to the traditional teachings of the Church.
Ultimately, this debate highlights the importance of the Catholic Church striking a balance between preserving its doctrine and welcoming marginalized people. One thing is certain, whatever the position adopted by the Church, the quest for love and acceptance remains universal, and it is up to each person to determine how they wish to live their faith and their sexuality.