In a Christmas Mass held at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Catholic Pro-Cathedral in Abuja, Catholic Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama refuted media reports claiming that Pope Francis had approved blessings for same-gender couples. Kaigama dismissed the reports as mischievous disinformation and part of a deliberate attempt by enemies of the Catholic Church to sow confusion among its members.
Kaigama, emphasizing the clarity of the Church’s position on same-gender relationships, stated definitively that the Pope did not and would never approve blessings for such couples. As the representative of the Pope in Abuja, Kaigama assured the congregation that if any such approval or directive existed, he would be the first to know and communicate it to the Church members.
He attributed the reports to an orchestrated effort by those spending substantial amounts to undermine the Catholic Church, asserting that these attempts had failed and would continue to do so. Kaigama encouraged Christians not to be disheartened or shaken by attacks on the Church, expressing confidence that evil could not prevail over good.
Turning his attention to the prevailing insecurity in Nigeria, the Archbishop urged Christians to maintain steadfastness in their faith and prayers, assuring them that the challenges would eventually be overcome. He specifically addressed the perpetrators of crimes, including the kidnapping of Catholic priests, urging them to desist to avoid divine retribution.
Kaigama also offered prayers for Nigeria and its leaders, calling on the Federal Government to enhance security measures to curb the rising tide of crime. He emphasized that Christmas symbolized a season of peace, love, care, change, and new beginnings for Christians, urging them to emulate Christ by adhering to these principles.
