'Respect for the Greek Orthodox Family' Rally Held in Thessaloniki

THESSALONIKI — As reported by UOJ-Greece, a march promoting traditional Orthodox views on family and marriage took place in Thessaloniki on June 13 under the banner “Respect for the Greek Orthodox Family.” Organizers described the event as a peaceful public demonstration in support of the family institution and related social values.

Participants gathered at the statue of Alexander the Great on the city’s waterfront before proceeding through central Thessaloniki, including Nikis Avenue, Tsimiski Street, and Agias Sophia Street. The march concluded outside the Church of St. Sophia, where speakers and supporters addressed attendees.

Messages of support were sent by Metr. Seraphim of Kythera, the former Metr. Tychikos of Paphos through a representative, Monk Dositheos, the Athonite Kellio Fathers, and the Center for Patristic Studies. Greetings were also received from several political organizations and figures, including Hellenic Solution, the Democratic Patriotic Movement Niki, the National Front, and Independent MP Nikolaos Papadopoulos.

Speakers discussed topics including demographic trends, family life, youth concerns, and gender-related policies. Participating organizations included Agia Emmelia – Protection of the Unborn Child, SFEVA, the Greek Orthodox Youth, the magazine Parakatathiki, and representatives of monasteries in Northern Greece.

During the gathering, attendees approved a resolution supporting the traditional family as the “primary cell of society.” The resolution called for the repeal of Greece’s same-sex marriage law, an end to Pride events in Thessaloniki, revisions to sex education courses in schools, and changes to church honors extended to politicians who supported the marriage legislation or participate in Pride events.

Previously, the UOJ reported that four American states promoted faith and family observances in June.