The Catholic Bishops in Nigeria have voiced their disagreement with Pope Francis' stance on blessing same-sex couples, stating that it could be seen as endorsing same-sex marriage. Read full article
Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji expressed these concerns during the formal opening of the 2024 First Plenary Assembly of the CBCN at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in Abuja.
He criticized the declaration "Fiducia Supplicans" issued by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith on December 18, 2023, stating that while it prohibits liturgical blessings for same-sex couples, it also recommends spontaneous pastoral blessings for couples in irregular situations, including same-sex couples.
Ugorji highlighted the ambiguity of the document, which has led to mixed reactions globally.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the Church's teaching based on Holy Scripture and Tradition, affirming that same-sex unions cannot be blessed in the Church in Africa.
Ugorji reiterated the Church's stance on homosexuality as intrinsically disordered but emphasized God's unconditional love and call to repentance for sinners.