In a bold and possibly his most assertive defense yet, Pope Francis addressed the criticism surrounding his decision to permit priests to bless same-sex couples. The move, authorized by the Vatican document Fiducia Supplicans, has encountered significant resistance within the Catholic Church, particularly from African bishops.
In an interview with Italian Catholic magazine Credere, the Pope expressed frustration at what he perceives as hypocrisy, highlighting the disparity in reactions between blessing a businessman with potential ethical concerns and blessing a homosexual couple.
Pope Francis reiterated his welcoming stance towards the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing that "no one should be denied a blessing." The pontiff, known for his "Who am I to judge?" statement on homosexuality, reaffirms his mission to make the Catholic Church more inclusive.
However, conservatives argue that this approach risks undermining the Church's moral teachings. Pope Francis defended Fiducia Supplicans, acknowledging pushback and emphasizing the blessings' focus on individuals rather than formal Church approval for same-sex unions.
The controversy extends to Africa, where bishops reject the document, citing concerns about causing scandal in regions with harsh anti-LGBT laws, including imprisonment and the death penalty.
The Pope and Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez accept this position, acknowledging Africa as a "special case" in its opposition to homosexuality.
