The Holy See has released a robust theological defence of lifelong monogamous marriage between one man and one woman, directly responding to African bishops who asked for clearer guidance in regions where polygamy remains common.
“A Dear One”: The Title Says It All
The 40-page text, titled A Dear One: In Praise of Monogamy, walks readers through Scripture, Church councils, papal teaching, philosophy, and even poetry to celebrate exclusive, permanent, life-giving marriage.
A cheeky note in the introduction tells busy readers they can skip straight to the final chapter and conclusion the core message is that clear.
Written by the Vatican’s Most Debated Cardinal
Argentine Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, head of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, penned the document. Appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 to modernise the office, Fernández has faced fierce conservative backlash over past writings on sexuality and his role in the 2023 decision allowing blessings for same-sex couples a move African bishops collectively rejected.
A Direct Message to Africa
The new text appears crafted with African realities in mind. Bishops across the continent have repeatedly told Rome that many new Catholics still practise polygamy and need firm yet pastoral direction.
By releasing a full-throated celebration of monogamy now, the Vatican is handing those bishops exactly the theological ammunition they requested.
Balancing Act
In less than two years, Cardinal Fernández has:
- Opened the door to blessing same-sex couples
- And now published one of the strongest defences of traditional marriage in decades
The Vatican insists both moves are fully consistent with unchanging doctrine — just applied to very different pastoral situations.
For African churches fighting cultural polygamy, the message from Rome is unmistakable: the Church’s teaching has not moved an inch.
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