Ecumenical Patriarchate Reaffirms Opposition to the Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage in Greece

OCP News Service – 25/01/2024

Constantinople- Turkey: The Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, meeting under the presidency of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, has reaffirmed its opposition to the institutionalization of same-sex marriage and childbearing in Greece. During its regular session on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, the Synod issued a statement reminding the faithful of the Ecumenical Throne of the Church’s longstanding position on the matter.

The statement specifically cites the binding Decision of the Holy and Great Synod of the Orthodox Church held in Crete in June 2016. This landmark synod, attended by representatives of various autocephalous Orthodox Churches, declared that “the Church does not accept for its members cohabitation of one or the other sex and any other form of cohabitation, other than marriage” as “the union of man and woman in Christ,” which “constitutes a small church or an icon of the Church” (text “The mystery of marriage and its obstacles”, I.10 and 4).

While reiterating its opposition to same-sex marriage and adoption, the Synod also emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals, regardless of their relationship status, with “pastoral responsibility and love in Christ.” This focus on pastoral care reflects the Church’s understanding that each individual is created in the image of God and deserves compassion and support.

The Synod’s statement comes amid ongoing debates in Greece about legalizing same-sex marriage and adoption. The Church’s position on these issues aligns with the traditional teachings of Orthodox Christianity, which view marriage as a sacred union between one man and one woman. However, the Church also recognizes the need for ongoing dialogue and reflection on family and marriage in a rapidly changing world.

The Holy and Sacred Synod’s statement carries significant weight within the Orthodox Church, offering guidance to Orthodox faithful in Greece and beyond. It reaffirms the Church’s commitment to its traditional understanding of marriage while also emphasizing the importance of extending pastoral care and love to all individuals.

Source:

OCP News Service