Pope Francis stood firm on Friday, backing the recent Catholic Church decision to bless same-sex couples.

This was while addressing concerns from conservative factions.

In December, the Vatican’s department for Roman Catholic doctrine, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, stated that priests could bless “irregular” and same-sex couples under specific conditions.

The statement caused uproar in some circles.

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Particularly in Africa, where critics accused the Church of reversing its stance on gay marriage and homosexuality, both of which it opposes.

“These blessings don’t demand moral perfection for acceptance,” the pope asserted during a meeting with dicastery members.

“When a couple requests it, we bless not their union but the individuals who seek it.

Taking into account various factors such as context, sensitivities, and suitable approaches.”

The original directive emphasized that blessings for same-sex couples, divorcees, or unmarried partners could only occur in “non-ritualized” settings.

Explicitly excluding weddings or civil unions.

Resistance against the Vatican’s decision has been especially vocal in countries like Malawi, Nigeria, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Cardinal Robert Sarah from Guinea, a prominent figure in conservative circles, labelled the declaration as “heretical.”

Earlier this month, the dicastery defended its stance, reiterating the Church’s position on marriage (reserved for a man and a woman) and homosexuality (deemed a sin).

However, it emphasized the need for “prudence and attention to ecclesial and cultural contexts” when implementing the ruling.

Since his ascension to the papacy in 2013, 87-year-old Pope Francis has advocated for inclusivity within the Church.

Extending outreach to LGBTQ communities.

Yet, his progressive efforts have faced staunch opposition from traditional and conservative factions within the Church.