Archbishop Philip Anyolo Opposes Pope Francis, Bans Clergies From Blessing Same-Sex Couples

• Archbishop Philip Anyolo has banned Catholic clergies in Nairobi from blessing same-sex couples
• This comes days after Pope Francis gave the go-ahead to all Catholic priests to bless irregular couples but under certain circumstances
• According to Anyolo, allowing it goes against the teachings of God, the laws of Kenya and the African and cultural traditions in place

The Catholic Archbishop of Nairobi, Philip Anyolo, has defied Pope Francis's directive allowing clergies to bless same-sex couples.

Pope, who is the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, said that priests should be permitted to bless same-sex couples and irregular couples under certain circumstances.

The Vatican, through a document, on December 19, said it should be a sign that "God welcomes all" but maintained priests should decide on a case-by-case basis.

Archbishop Philip Anyola's move to defy Pope Francis

However, according to a statement sent to parishioners, Anyolo said such an activity would be scandalous to the faith.

Daily Nation reported that Anyolo clarified that the directive by Pope Francis goes against the African cultural traditions, the word of God, the laws of Kenya and the teachings of the church.

"To make sure the fundamental doctrinal positions affirmed in the declaration and the perennial teachings of the church on marriage are upheld, all clergy residing and ministering in the Nairobi Archdiocese are prohibited from blessing irregular relationships, unions or same-sex couples," he said in a letter to parishioners.

It is unclear if others will follow suit and issue directives banning clergies in their respective jurisdictions from following Pope's directive.

How Pope Francis has made history

Earlier in the year, Pope Francis made history as the first Vatican Leader to openly show support for the LGBTQ+ community.

The man of God bashed laws that have criminalised the queer community, saying God loves everybody as they are.

He branded the laws unjust and urged the Catholic church to welcome everyone and not discriminate.

"These bishops have to have a process of conversion. They should apply tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us. We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity," he said.