In response to Pope Francis’ recent directive allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) firmly states that blessing same-sex marriages goes against God’s law.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the Pope’s directive, the Nigerian bishops emphasize that blessing same-sex unions contradicts the teachings of the Church, the laws of the country, and the cultural values of Nigerians.
In a statement released in Ibadan and signed by CBCN President Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, Secretary Most Rev. Donatus Ogun, and other executives, the bishops affirm that the Catholic Church’s teachings on marriage remain unchanged.
“There is, therefore, no possibility in the Church of blessing same-sex unions and activities; that will go against God’s law, the teachings of the church, the laws of our nation, and the cultural sensibilities of our people,” the statement reads.
Expressing gratitude to priests for their support of married couples, the bishops urge them to continue upholding the sacrament of Holy Matrimony without engaging in any actions that undermine its sanctity.
This declaration underscores the CBCN’s commitment to maintaining traditional teachings on marriage and resisting any deviation from established doctrines.
