Pope Francis Addresses Criticism of LGBT Blessings, Identifies Africans as a ‘Special Case

Pope Francis expressed confidence that critics of his decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples will eventually understand it, except for Africans whom he referred to as a “special case.” The Pope’s comments come in response to the widespread debate within the Catholic Church over the Fiducia Supplicans document, which permitted such blessings.

Notably, African bishops have strongly resisted this move, considering homosexuality as culturally unacceptable in their region. Pope Francis acknowledged the ideological opposition but affirmed his belief that the Fiducia Supplicans declaration aims to include rather than divide.

The Pope emphasized that priests should consider the context and sensitivities when giving blessings. Despite the pushback, Pope Francis stated that his agenda for 2024 includes visits to Belgium, East Timor, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia.