African Bishops Reject Polygamy
The text firmly reiterates the Church’s teaching that marriage is monogamous by nature - one man and one woman. This is not a cultural construct, but is rooted in creation (Genesis), Christ’s teachings (Matthew 19) and the sacramental nature of marriage itself.
Summary of the document: Polygamy is incompatible with sacramental marriage, contradicts the equal dignity of men and women, and cannot represent the unity between Christ and the Church.
Clear Also At The Practical Level
Furthermore, the document is clear that polygamists are not admitted to the sacraments.
No one may be baptised while remaining in a polygamous union. There is no allowance for baptism based on promises of future change — conversion must be genuine and take place beforehand.
In certain cases, the first wife may be baptised, especially if she is not responsible for the polygamy.
Polygamous unions are not recognised, either implicitly or explicitly, within the life of the Church.
At the same time, the document introduces a carefully considered pastoral approach. Polygamists may remain within the Church's sphere of influence and receive support, but they are not granted access to baptism or the sacraments.
God Never Commands Anything Impossible
The most sensitive part of the document recognizes the reality of these unions. The document claims situations where polygamists allegedly "cannot" break away from their existing obligations such as spouses, children and social responsibilities.
And: Some of the language used, such as 'listening', 'proximity', 'integration' and 'without judging', reflects the pastoral vocabulary of Francis's pontificate.
Despite the document being well worded, even Catholic priests in Africa often blend Catholic beliefs with pagan African practices and rites.
#newsOuuiqinjou