Church of Greece 'firmly opposed' to same-sex marriage in response to related bills

The Greek Orthodox church response came after the government stated its intention to table a bill in parliament supporting same-sex marriage, while a bill already tabled by the main opposition calls for recognition of surrogate motherhood as well. 

In its detailed statement, th Church also said it rejects civil marriage 'regardless of sex', adoption by same-sex parents, and surrogate motherhood. The Church said that surrogate motherhood for same-sex couples would be recognized in Greece if made legally in other countries, which would "serve as incentive to take advantage of vulnerable women." 

Specifically, the Church said, "The Church of Greece recognizes only the the holy sacrament of Christian marriage and rejects civil marriage regardless of gender. In this regard, it rejects civil marriage of 'same-sex couples' for the further reason that this inevitably leads to 'same-sex parenthood' through adoption or surrogate motherhood. This legislation clashes both with Christian anthropology and with society's obligation to guarantee prosperity and the right upbringing, as well as with the right of children to a father's and a mother's presence and care. For all these reasons, and with a sense of pastoral responsibility and love, our holy Church is firmly opposed to the promoted bill."