In a resolute statement during the Christmas Mass at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Catholic Pro-Cathedral in Abuja, the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama, vehemently refuted media reports suggesting that Pope Francis had given approval for same-sex couples.
Addressing the congregation on Monday, Archbishop Kaigama asserted that the circulated reports were not only false but intentionally fabricated by adversaries seeking to sow confusion within the Catholic Church. He emphasized that if the Pope had indeed granted such approval, he, as the Pope’s representative, would have been informed.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Pope did not, and will never approve blessings for any intending same-gender couples because the position of the Church on this is very clear and has not changed,” declared Kaigama.
The Archbishop expressed concern over the relentless efforts of those he referred to as “enemies of the Church” who, he claimed, were investing substantial resources to undermine the Catholic Church’s integrity. Kaigama urged the faithful not to succumb to despair or let their faith be shaken by these attacks, assuring them that the Church would stand firm against such attempts.
“I am the representative of the Pope here, so if there is any such approval or directive, I will be the first to know and relay the message to the brethren,” Kaigama reassured the congregation, dismissing the media reports as part of a broader scheme to weaken the Church.
In conclusion, he delivered a powerful message of resilience to Christians, urging them not to be swayed by the ongoing assaults on the Church. He emphasized that, just as darkness cannot overcome light, evil would never prevail over good. The Archbishop’s unwavering stance sought to dispel any doubts and reinforce the Church’s steadfast commitment to its traditional teachings.
