During the ongoing Synod on Synodality in Rome, the pastoral challenge of polygamy in Africa took center stage on October 18, 2024. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of Congo, who serves as the President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), brought the issue to the fore, highlighting how the Church can provide pastoral care to Christians in polygamous unions.

Cardinal Ambongo, while speaking via the Vatican radio noted that while polygamy does not align with the Christian ideal of marriage as ordained by God, the African context presents unique challenges. Many polygamous marriages are rooted in cultural traditions and influenced by factors such as economic stability, emotional connections, and the well-being of children. This makes the issue particularly sensitive for individuals who embrace Christianity but remain in such unions even after baptism.

As the Synod deliberates on this matter, there is a call for pastoral care that focuses on active listening and guidance, ensuring that those in polygamous unions are not alienated. A document from SECAM is expected to offer recommendations on how the Church in Africa can address the issue of polygamy pastorally, while upholding the Christian values of marriage.

Please note that no decisions have been made on this issue so far.