Is the continent really the church’s future?
(RNS) — During his recent visit to Africa, Pope Leo XIV was encouraging to a continent where religion, family and community are still vital in the lives of people. But he was also challenging, especially to the ruling elites whose corruption and infighting are keeping the continent from reaching its true potential. Much media attention has focused on the African church’s opposition to LGBTQ rights in their countries and the blessing of gay couples in the church. Pope Leo said he believes there are more pressing moral issues to be addressed, like “justice, equality and freedom.” It was not long ago that the West treated LGBTQ people very badly. It took us time to change. Still, it is shocking to see African bishops support the criminalization of gays and, in some cases, even executions. Similar positions have been taken by other Christian churches and imams in Africa. African bishops also need to recognize that Europe’s desire to be pastoral and welcoming to gays is not that different from their desire to be pastoral and welcoming …
