Overview

• Pope Francis recently approved blessings for same-sex couples, sparking widespread debate within the Catholic Church.
• Strong resistance to this decision has come from African bishops, who argue that homosexuality is culturally viewed as 'bad' and is not tolerated in Africa.
• In some African countries, same-sex activity can lead to imprisonment or even the death penalty.
• Pope Francis maintains that the blessings should be given in a way that takes into account the context and sensitivities of the location.
• The Pope's decision has caused a rift between the Vatican and African churches, with some calling for a boycott of the Pope and the Church of Rome.