Greek Orthodox priests protest government’s sanction of same-sex marriage

Breaking years of tradition, the Greek Orthodox Church’s relocation of its key religious event and rejection of a presidential luncheon highlight its firm stance against the recent same-sex marriage legislation in Greece

The Greek Orthodox Church has made a significant decision to move the celebration of Orthodox Sunday from the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens to the Monastery of Petraki and declined the invitation to the customary luncheon at the Presidential Mansion.

The Hierarchical Synod of the Church plans to conduct the celebration on March 24 at the Monastery of Petraki, as reported by the Greek newspaper Kathimerini.

This change marks a significant departure from traditional practices, reflecting the Church’s stance on the new legislation. The Metropolitan Cathedral has traditionally been central to the Church’s public expressions of faith and national identity and holds significant symbolic value.

The selection of the Monastery of Petraki for this year’s March 24 celebration thus highlights a deviation from tradition, emphasizing the growing tension between the Church and the state over this social issue.

Furthermore, Church leaders have refused to attend the customary luncheon at the Presidential Mansion, hosted by President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, in honor of Orthodox Sunday. This refusal is a clear indication of the rift between the Church and state authorities, fueled by the dispute over the same-sex marriage legislation.

Archbishop Ieronymos has commented on the matter of same-sex couples, stating that the Church extends love to all individuals, but he personally does not support such marriages.

Additionally, the Church has opted not to address the participation of its representatives in the March 25 Independence Day parades, instead focusing on its opposition to the same-sex marriage legislation.

Moreover, several Greek media outlets have noted that the alteration in the venue of the Orthodox Sunday celebration is an indirect yet meaningful response to the state’s position on same-sex marriage, steering clear of the usual protocols involving political figures.

By opting not to hold the celebration at the Metropolitan Cathedral and refusing the luncheon invitation at the Presidential Mansion, the Church is making a public statement about its position on recent political developments.

Source: Newsroom