The Holy Community of Mount Athos has urged the Greek government to refrain from enacting legislation regarding same-sex marriage and the adoption of children by same-sex couples.
In their statement, the Holy Community firmly declares, “Any form of marriage or adoption that contradicts evangelical teachings and the enduring traditions of our pious nation and heritage stands in complete opposition to us, particularly concerning the sanctity of the traditional family.”
Read the full announcement below:
Following recent discussions regarding the Greek Government’s proposal to legalize marriage for same-sex couples and their potential adoption of children, our Holy Community voices profound concern echoed by all Athonite Fathers.
Mount Athos, a sanctuary of prayer and asceticism, holds a humble reverence for all humanity as the divine image. Yet, we express our deep distress and concern regarding the proposed legislation.
We emphasize unequivocally through this announcement that any form of marriage or adoption that contradicts evangelical teachings and the enduring traditions of our pious nation and heritage stands in complete opposition to us, particularly concerning the sanctity of the traditional family.
We earnestly implore the Greek Government to reconsider the announced legislation, as it opposes the evangelical doctrines. We beseech the Most Holy Theotokos, the Protector of our homeland and Mount Athos, to intercede to our Lord Jesus Christ for the guidance of all towards repentance and a life in accordance with the divine light of the Gospel and God’s teachings.
All Representatives and Overseers present at the Joint Meeting of the twenty Holy Monasteries of Mount Athos.
