The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria have stated their stance on the recent pronouncement of the Pope on same-sex marriage, noting that it does not in any way change the Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage.

According to Tribune, the President of CBCN, Bishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji and the Secretary, Bishop Donatus Ogun, made their stance known in a statement.

The Bishops noted that the Declaration by the Pope seeks to explained the different forms of blessing that can be given to persons and objects in the Catholic Church, including the possibility of blessing persons in irregular unions.They said this in response to the Fiducia Supplicans released by the Vatican which has created confusion among Christians and the Catholic faithful,

SoNature:
Pope Francis didn't ask the priest to start wedding gay couples. He simply said they are free to bless them because everyone deserves God's blessings and he hopes that would make them change their ways. People should stop distorting facts.

Armaggedon:
Blessings gay couples means approving gay marriage without making Africans like you angry.

Antoeni:
Understanding the Pope’s position on the blessing of Same-Sex relationships before rushing to misrepresent the truth:

*“Fiducia supplicans"* in simpler terms:

*1. Blessings, not marriage:* The Church understands blessings as ways to ask for God's grace and favour in various situations. This document clarifies that it's possible to bless same-sex couples without recognizing their union as marriage.

*2. No change in marriage teaching:* The Church's teaching on marriage as between a man and a woman remains unchanged. This blessing gesture doesn't endorse their relationship but shows God's love for all.

*3. Blessings come in different forms:* There are formal blessings, like at weddings, and informal ones, like at shrines. This document focuses on informal blessings, where anyone, including those in irregular relationships, can ask for God's blessing.

*4. Blessings show humility and need for God:* Asking for a blessing expresses trust in God and a desire for his goodness. Even if someone's situation isn't perfect, they can still seek God's grace.

*5. Blessings have limits:* While the Church can offer blessings to everyone, it can't bless anything contrary to God's will. So, this blessing doesn't legitimize same-sex unions but asks for God's guidance and love.

*6. Discernment and respect:* The document encourages pastors to use their judgment when deciding about such blessings. The setting and words should be clear to avoid confusion with marriage ceremonies.

*7. Hope and openness:* Ultimately, this document reflects the Church's desire to welcome everyone with God's love and mercy, even those in challenging situations. It's a step towards greater understanding and pastoral care.

*Remember:* This is a simplified explanation of a complex document. For a deeper understanding, consult the original text (the English version begins on pages 20 through 28) --

Kobicove:
The pope must have been intoxicated when he made this ruling