In a recent interview with Italian newspaper La Stampa, Pope Francis has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding his decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples.
He asserted that while he was confident critics worldwide will eventually understand his stance, Africans are viewed as a “special case.”
The Pope acknowledged that Africans consider LGBT issues as culturally sensitive, contributing to the resistance faced, particularly from African bishops.
The contentious blessings were officially permitted last month through a document titled Fiducia Supplicans (Supplicating Trust). This development has triggered intense debate within the Catholic Church, with a notable stronghold of resistance emanating from the African continent.
Pope Francis remarked, “A special case is Africans: for them homosexuality is something ‘bad’. From a cultural point of view, they don’t tolerate it.”
Despite the widespread dissent, the pontiff expressed optimism about the broader acceptance of the newly sanctioned blessings. He dismissed the critics as belonging to “small ideological groups“, while emphasizing the inclusive nature of the *Fiducia Supplicans* declaration by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
Pope Francis stated, “But in general, I trust that gradually everyone will be reassured by the spirit of the declaration. It aims to include, not divide.”
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Acknowledging the resistance faced, especially in Africa, Pope Francis highlighted the need for priests to consider the context, sensitivities, and local nuances when administering these blessings.
This flexibility is crucial, given the diverse cultural perspectives within the global Catholic community.
Last week, Pope Francis hinted at the pushback and acknowledged the challenges the document presented, particularly in Africa, where certain countries criminalize same-sex activities, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to the death penalty.
Turning to his personal well-being, the 87-year-old pontiff provided reassurance about his health, which has been a subject of concern in recent years.
Despite experiencing some aches and pains, he stated, “There are some aches and pains but it’s better now, I’m fine.”
