Catholic bishops in Nigeria have once again voiced their stance on the blessing of same-gender couples, emphasizing that such unions will not be endorsed in the country.
Speaking at the formal opening of the 2024 First Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) on Sunday, February 18, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji reiterated the position of the Pope, indicating that it does not support same-gender marriage.
Rev. Ugorji highlighted that declarations from the Holy See are meant to foster unity and communion on matters of doctrine, morals, and liturgy. However, he expressed disappointment that the recent statement, Fiducia Supplicans, seemed to contradict this purpose, leading to division within the Church.
“We must acknowledge that the Declaration, Fiducia Supplicans (On the Pastoral Meaning Blessings), issued on December 18, 2023, by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, has caused distress,” he remarked.
While the document prohibits liturgical blessings for same-gender couples, it also suggests spontaneous pastoral blessings for couples in irregular situations, including those in same-gender relationships.
Ugorji pointed out that the Declaration’s ambiguity has led to varied reactions from Episcopal Conferences and individual Bishops worldwide, with some accepting, others remaining skeptical, and some outrightly rejecting its contents.
