Pope Francis said in an interview published on Monday that he was confident that those who criticized his decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples would eventually understand the decision, with the exception of African bishops, who are a “special case”. , reports Reuters.

Last month, Pope Francis approved a decree that allows priests to bless same-sex couples under certain conditions and if the blessings are not matrimonial and are not part of the Church’s normal rituals or liturgies, a decision that has sparked widespread debate. bishops

“Those who protest fervently belong to small ideological groups,” the Sovereign Pontiff told the Italian newspaper La Stampa. – Africans are a special case: for them, homosexuality is something “bad” from a cultural point of view, they do not tolerate it. “

“But in general, I believe that gradually everyone will be reassured by the spirit of the Fiducia Supplicans declaration of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith: it aims to include, not divide,” Pope Francis continued.

As recently as last week, the Supreme Pontiff appeared to acknowledge the backlash the document has caused, particularly in Africa, where bishops have effectively rejected it, and in some countries same-sex relationships can lead to prison or even the death penalty.

He said that during the blessing, priests should “of course take into account the context, the sensitivities, the places where the person lives and the most appropriate ways to do it.”

In an interview with the daily newspaper La Stampa, Pope Francis confirmed that he will receive Argentine President Javier Millay at the Vatican on February 11, and that a possible visit to his home country is likely.

He said his 2024 schedule currently includes trips to Belgium, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.

Speaking about his health, which has taken several hits in recent years with hospitalizations, mobility problems and canceled trips or events, Pope Francis, 87, said: “there is some pain, but it’s better now, I’m fine.”