‘It contradicts the Bible’ — CAN lauds Pope Francis for rejecting same-sex marriage

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has praised Pope Francis for rejecting same-sex marriage and “standing by the Bible”.

The Vatican had earlier decreed that the Catholic Church will not bless gay marriages since God “cannot bless sin”.

Commenting on the development, CAN said the pope’s decision was godly and timely.

In a statement by Joseph Daramola, its general secretary, the Christian body said the position of the Bible on same-sex marriage is “superior to any civilisation”.

“We agree with the pope that the godly and timely decision is not intended to be a form of unjust discrimination but rather a reminder of the truth of the liturgical rite,” it said.

“Our joy knew no bounds when we learnt that the decision of the Vatican’s Doctrinal Office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, rejecting the same-sex union or marriage was endorsed by Pope Francis.

“Whatever law that contradicts these passages of the Bible is totally unacceptable, reprehensible and must be rejected.

“Even the practice is accursed to the animals, we wonder why normal human beings will be practicing it, we condemn it in strong terms.

“We totally agree with the Vatican that, what is to be blessed needs to be ‘objectively and positively ordered to receive and express the grace, according to the designs of God inscribed in creation, and fully revealed by Christ the Lord.

“For this reason, it is not licit to impart a blessing on relationships, or partnerships, even stable, that involve sexual activity outside of marriage.”

The association called on governments, especially in Africa, which endorsed same-sex marriage, to “retreat”.

CAN also commended the Nigerian government “for resisting the pressure to reverse its anti-same-sex policy and law.”