Finnish Orthodox bishops to reconsider ban on priests attending same-sex weddings

The bishops of the Finnish Orthodox Church will reconsider a rule barring priests from taking part in same-sex weddings in other churches, Archbishop Elia told Yle. The bishops will first hear from the Orthodox Priests’ Association, which has asked them to review the decision.

“The bishops have reviewed their decisions before when circumstances have required it. I do not want to predict the outcome,” Elia told Yle in an email.

The bishops announced the rule on October 25. It says priests may not conduct or assist at a same-sex wedding or blessing in another denomination, read prayers, give a blessing or otherwise participate in a liturgical role. They may not attend in clerical clothing, and their name or title may not be used in connection with the event.

The decision prompted widespread criticism. A statement expressing concern has been signed by 236 people, who say the guidance leaves unclear how priests can support relatives and members of their congregations. The Orthodox Priests’ Association wrote to the bishops on November 4 to request a reassessment, citing concerns about priests’ ability to fulfil their pastoral duties.

Elia said the guidance concerns the role in which a priest attends another church’s ceremony. A priest taking part in a liturgical role or wearing clerical clothing represents the church, he said, but the rule does not prevent a priest from attending a loved one’s celebration as a private individual.

Elia denied that the decision was prompted by outside pressure or international guidance. He also rejected comparisons with the rhetoric of the Russian Orthodox Church, saying its leadership had portrayed sexual minorities as an enemy to justify its war, while the Finnish Orthodox Church rejects that rhetoric and the religious justification of the war.

“People who belong to sexual and gender minorities are members of our congregations. They are part of the church,” Elia said.