Rev Fr Chinaka Mbaeri, a Catholic missionary priest currently serving in the Archdiocese of Sao Paulo, Brazil, spoke to Emmanuel Ojo about the recent statement by Pope Francis allowing Roman Catholic priests to administer blessings to same-sex couples. Fr Chinaka Mbaeri clarified the Pope’s stance and discussed the potential implications, especially in the context of Nigeria.
Roles in Brazil: Fr Chinaka Mbaeri, a missionary priest of the Oblates of St Joseph, currently serves as the chaplain of the African Catholic Community in Sao Paulo. Additionally, he is a student of Biblical Theology at the Pontifical Catholic University, Sao Paulo.
Pope’s Statement on Same-Sex Blessings: Fr Mbaeri clarified Pope Francis’s statement, emphasizing that the Pope approved a doctrinal variation allowing blessings for same-sex couples in regular situations. He highlighted that it is a pastoral approach, not a declaration of marriage. The aim is to offer blessings to help individuals in same-sex unions live a holier life in line with the gospel.
Impact on Nigerian Law: Regarding Nigeria’s anti-gay rights law, Fr Mbaeri noted that as long as the blessing does not involve officially declaring same-sex couples as married, it should not violate Nigerian law. He explained that the law in Nigeria is clear and does not require priests to report gay couples to the police.
Pastoral Prudence: Fr Mbaeri emphasized pastoral prudence, stating that if someone seeks prayers or blessings, priests can offer them without violating the law. He distinguished between blessing individuals for repentance and a pastoral approach, which aims to help them live a holier life.
Catechesis and Pastoral Guidance: To avoid misinterpretation, Fr Mbaeri stressed the importance of catechesis and pastoral guidance within the Catholic Church. He mentioned the responsibility of priests to educate parishioners about the differences in blessings and marriages, clarifying the Pope’s intentions.
Private Ministries and Universities: Fr Mbaeri addressed the issue of priests running private ministries and universities, stating that priests must seek permission from their bishops for such ventures. He emphasized the bishop’s role in approving and overseeing priests’ activities outside their regular pastoral duties.
Handling Violations of Celibacy Vows: Fr Mbaeri acknowledged that cases of priests violating celibacy vows could occur. He stressed the importance of the people reporting irregularities to higher authorities within the church, allowing for investigations and appropriate measures to be taken.
The interview provides insights into the Catholic Church’s perspective on same-sex blessings, pastoral care, and the role of spiritual leader in adhering to church teachings.
