Summary:

• The Uganda Episcopal Conference clarifies that Pope Francis’ recent statement on blessing same-sex couples does not alter the Catholic Church’s teachings on marriage, emphasizing that same-sex unions will not be blessed in the church.

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The Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC), the assembly of the Catholic hierarchy in Uganda, has clarified that a recent statement by Pope Francis regarding the blessing of same-sex couples “does not alter the Catholic Church’s teachings on Holy matrimony.”

In a document approved by Pope Francis on Monday, blessings for same-sex couples were allowed, provided they are not associated with civil unions or weddings.

UEC chairman Bishop Anthony Joseph Zziwa emphasized, “Take it from us today that this document does not, in any way, alter the teachings of the Catholic Church on holy matrimony. The declaration upholds the traditional doctrine of the Catholic Church regarding marriage. There is no intention to bless same-sex unions in the church.”

To further clarify, Bishop Zziwa stated, “One should neither facilitate nor endorse the [blessing] ritual in an irregular situation.” He explained that some may seek a blessing for conversion, such as before travel or when inviting people to their homes for prayers.

Addressing concerns during a Christmas message at the Catholic Secretariat in Kampala, Bishop Zziwa urged devotees “not to panic” and reassured them that the Ugandan law prohibits same-sex relationships.

He emphasized the cultural and legal context, stating, “How can we preside over the marriage of such people, which is against the nation’s laws? Culturally, same-sex marriage has no place in Uganda and Africa.”

UEC highlighted that the misinterpretation of the Pope’s document prompted the Catholic Church to center their Christmas and New Year gospel reflections on the significance of family for Uganda’s development.

Bishop Zziwa added, “The purpose of marriage is to have children. People of the same sex cannot fulfill this purpose, as stated in the book of Genesis. Jesus was born to Joseph and Mary in Bethlehem, so we joyfully celebrate his birthday [Christmas Day].”

He encouraged the faithful to reject ideologies and practices that undermine family and national peace, urging them to combat selfishness, greed, corruption, injustice, envy, immorality, poverty, hunger, and all forms of conflict. The Catholic Church maintains that there will be no formal blessings for same-sex marriages.