by Bishop Alexander (Mileant) –
There is no example in all of the New Testament of approval, acceptance, or even tolerance of homosexuality.
Homosexuality: Although there is much more open discussion about homosexuality in the twentieth century than in previous times, there is definite reference to it in ancient writings. The frequently used synonym, sodomy, comes from the apparent homosexual activity among men of Sodom (Genesis 19), and the severity of strictures set forth in the Holiness Code, with nothing short of the death penalty being imposed, suggested that the need for discipline must have been great, (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13). The Old Testament understood normal sexual intercourse as not only a way of expressing a loving relationship, but also as a divinely appointed way of procreating new life.
In the New Testament, St. Paul condemns male prostitutes and homosexuals (I Corinthians 6:9-11). In the first chapter of his epistle to the Romans (Romans 1:24-32), he also judges it as unnatural. Homosexuals are included elsewhere among the immoral persons who, St. Paul says, deserve judgement by God (I Timothy 1:10). There is no example in all of the New Testament of approval, acceptance, or even tolerance of homosexuality.
Throughout Christian history, this disapproval has continued to be the case. In the patristic era freedom from homosexuality was seen as a mark of the Christian’s ethical superiority to the wanton way of life that converts had left. Patristic thinking, like scriptural references, were directed to the practice of homosexuality, not to the desire itself. The Orthodox Church does not condemn the person who keeps this propensity in check, and ministers to homosexuals who wish to find release from this inclination.
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Excerpts from The Orthodox Church Catechism Missionary Booklet, edited by Bishop Alexander (Mileant). Bishop Alexander was Bishop of Buenos Aires and South America of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia. Bishop Alexander is well known for his missionary leaflets. From 1985 to 2005 Bishop Alexander published a total of 763 brochures: 300 in Russian, 192 in English, 168 in Spanish and 103 in Portuguese.
True and clear teaching to remember and reference, in case any Orthodox deacons, priests, bishops, academics, and other Orthodox faithful are still “confused” about this grave moral issue.
I agree 100%. I live in an area where the militant LGBT community and their supporters are in the majority. Having engaged and numerous debates with this community I would point out one thing, .. never use ambiguous statements such as: “The frequently used synonym, sodomy, APPARENTLY comes from the homosexual activity among men of Sodom”. You will immediately be taken to task, backed into a corner to prove your statement then you will be personally attacked your intelligence and integrity questioned.