Phanar bishop: Those against service in church with LGBT flag lack kindness

St Bartholomew’s Church (Episcopal), New York. Photo: helleniscope.com

On 12 June 2023, the head of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in the US, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, stated that those who condemn Orthodox worship in a church with LGBT flags have no kindness.

During the Great Vespers St Bartholomew’s Church, which has an LGBTQ+ flag hanging over its entrance, Archbishop Elpidophoros said that the head of the Phanar "has deep concern and care for all of creation".

Explaining the reason why representatives of the Greek Archdiocese of America gathered in the Episcopal Church temple to celebrate Patriarch Bartholomew's name day, Archbishop Emmanuel said: "We celebrate the Ecumenical Patriarch’s name day here in a church of another Christian community because His All-Holiness is the very definition of ecumenicity."

"His All-Holiness acts like a spiritual wheel in the world – holding the traditions fast in the hub of the Holy Mother Church. But he reaches out as well through spokes that extend in love and compassion to all people. No one is ever beneath or unworthy of the love of God," said Archbishop Elpidophoros.

He noted that the service in the temple, over whose entrance hangs the LGBT flag and which belongs to a "different Christian tradition, is a sign of our expansive and embracing love for all people".

"It is a symbolic act that many will try to interpret through their own filters of grievance, prejudice, and lack of basic human kindness.," said Archbishop Elpidophorus.

As reported, one of the members of the chanting team refused to take part in a service in the temple with an LGBT flag, which was led by Archbishop Elpidophoros.

This chorister sent a group email to all the other members informing them that he "is not coming, because of the gay flag and the despicable events this church promoted – esp. the gay flag around the Holy Cross".

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