THE CHURCH AND POLYGAMY IN AFRICA: THE ROLE OF CHRISTIAN SPIRITUAL DIRECTION IN LIGHT OF FIDUCIA SUPPLICANS

Abstract

Polygamous marriage is one of the marriages accepted and practiced in Africa. Although not acceptable in Christian faith, many African Christians practice it. Consequently, they are denied certain privileges including spiritual one, such as not receiving the sacraments despite their expressed sincere desire for the salvation of their souls. Unfortunately, the Church does not have a clear teaching about the nature or form of spiritual care for people in polygamous marriage. In order to bridge this gap of spiritual care, this paper explores Spiritual Direction in the light of Fiducia Supplicans that teaches about the blessing of people in irregular relationship. It proposes that the Church offers spiritual direction for people in polygamous marriage. To aid them spiritually in their desire for salvation, spiritual direction should be their reference point. This will provide a double role of helping them to embrace the right marriage and as well to grow in Christian perfection.