Orthodox Bishops Urge Faithful to Join March for Life UK

LONDON — Orthodox Christian hierarchs serving in Great Britain and Ireland have urged clergy and faithful to participate in the March for Life UK in London on Saturday, September 5, emphasizing prayer, repentance, and the dignity of every human life.

In a statement issued September 4, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of Great Britain and Ireland encouraged Orthodox Christians attending the annual event to join the Moleben, or Service of Supplication, led by Fr. Mark Tattum-Smith of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR), with the blessing of Bp. Irenei. The bishops said the service and ROCOR-led group are known for their peaceful and prayerful presence.

The hierarchs said Orthodox participation should not be motivated by judgment, but by repentance over society’s failure to support women facing crises and to protect unborn children. They also connected the witness to the expected return of the Assisted Suicide Bill to the UK Parliament, saying Orthodox Christians affirm the sacredness of every human life, regardless of age or whether a person has been born.

The statement said Orthodox participants will pray for those whose lives have been lost or wounded through abortion and ask God to guide nations toward recognition of the sanctity of human life.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a “Respect for the Greek Orthodox Family” rally was held in Thessaloniki.