Pope Francis has attributed African culture to the intolerance of blessings for same-sex couples, stating that the negative perception of homosexuality in Africa stems from cultural perspectives.
In an interview with Italian newspaper La Stampa, the Pope acknowledged that some Africans find homosexuality culturally unacceptable.
He expressed confidence that over time, critics of his decision to allow same-sex blessings would come to understand it, except for Africans, whom he termed a "special case."
The Pope referred to the Fiducia Supplicans declaration by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, aiming to include rather than divide, as a means of reassurance. In December, a Vatican document allowing such blessings sparked controversy, particularly in Africa, where some bishops rejected the move.
The Vatican clarified that the blessings should not be part of regular church ceremonies or associated with civil unions or weddings, reiterating its view of marriage as between a man and a woman.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria announced that Catholic churches in the country would not perform blessings for same-sex unions, citing alignment with God's law, Church teachings, national laws, and cultural sensibilities.
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