Greek hierarch condemns harsh reactions of priests toward LGBT marriages

Metropolitan Philotheos. Photo: Orthodox Times

Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki from the Greek Orthodox Church commented on the Church's approach to same-sex marriages, reports Orthodox Times. He stated that the Church must not reject people, even if their way of life does not align with its teachings.

The Metropolitan emphasized, “A bishop must love everyone and send no one to damnation. Even with those whose way of life he may disagree with, he must strive to embrace them, to stay with them, and never to drive them away.” He noted that the role of clergy is to find a balance between the Church’s principles and its relationship with people, showing love and understanding, "and that is what I strive for – not only to be a balancer but to remain a balanced person."

Metropolitan Philotheos also rejected the extreme reactions of some clergy towards same-sex marriages, stressing that the Church’s primary mission is not condemnation but support and dialogue with each person, regardless of their beliefs or choices.

As previously reported, the Pope clarified whether the blessing of LGBT couples constitutes a departure from RCC teachings.

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