African Catholic Bishops Reject Vatican's Same-Sex Blessing Decree

The bishops, while remaining in communion with the Vatican, assert that same-sex unions are contrary to God's will and will not be blessed in Africa.

African Catholic bishops have unified to reject the Vatican's decree allowing priests to non-liturgically bless same-sex couples, stating such unions are 'contrary to the will of God.'
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of the Symposium of the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), issued a letter asserting this stance.
While the Episcopal Conferences across Africa remain in 'communion' with Pope Francis and the Vatican, they have decided not to bless same-sex couples now or in the future.
The decision not to bless same-sex unions is based on religious beliefs and cultural standards, according to reports.
Despite this stance, the African bishops emphasize that people with a homosexual tendency must be treated with respect and dignity.