ROC rep: After RCC blesses gays, reunification with Orthodoxy is impossible
Pope Francis and Metropolitan Hilarion. Photo: Vatican News
Metropolitan Hilarion of Budapest, the former head of the DECR-MP, said in an interview with Rod Dreher, an American writer and editor-at-large at “The American Conservative”, that the Vatican's document allowing the blessing of same-sex couples makes it impossible to talk about a possible reunion between Catholics and Orthodox Christians. The interview was published on the YouTube channel Jesus Portal.
The metropolitan said he was shocked by the decision because "we have always looked at the RCC as a beacon of traditional Christianity".
Asked by a journalist whether the Vatican document was the end of talks between Catholics and Orthodox about the possibility of reuniting the Church after the Great Schism of 1054, the hierarch answered in the affirmative.
"If we are realistic, we can no longer hope for future unity between Orthodox and Catholics. Such steps, of course, do not make us closer but will create new lines of separation," the Metropolitan said.
As reported, the Vatican allowed the RCC priests to bless homosexual couples.
Read also
Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training
Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Cherny, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.
Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again
A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.
OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience
More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.
Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors
The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.
Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies
ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.
Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says
Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.