Gov’t says it stands by same-sex marriage pledge even after opposition from the Church

Greece's center-right government said Thursday it would fulfill a commitment to legalize same-sex marriage, sidestepping staunch opposition from the country's influential Orthodox Church.

The legislation would be brought to parliament during the house's current term, which ends in 2027, said government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis.

The statement comes after the Church's governing Holy Synod issued a 1,500-word opinion late Wednesday, expressing strong opposition to the proposal. The Church's main argument centered around the issue of raising children, claiming they are being treated as "accessories" and "companion pets" for gay couples.

"We always listen to the opinions of the Church with respect," Marinakis said. "But at the same time, we are implementing our policy, and will listen to the views of society, civil society, the citizenry, institutions, and parties...