Kochi: Live-in relationship, divorce, remarriage and same-sex relation were the main subjects discussed at the recently concluded Synod on Family at Vatican, said Syro-Malabar Church head Cardinal Mar George Alencherry, who took part in the synod.
“Such issues have become a major concern mainly in Europe. The Church is of the opinion that those involved in live-in relationships and same-sex relations should be brought back to normal life through counselling. It is a misconception that same-sex love is an urge by birth, and that such people cannot live otherwise. Modern psychology has not approved this argument. The Church does not approve same-sex marriage. Christian marriages should be between man and woman,” said the Cardinal at a press conference here on Tuesday, The Indian Express reported.
“At the synod, an opinion emerged that those who are granted divorce should not be isolated, instead they should be guided by the Church. Those who are in live-in relationships should be guided to marriage. Another suggestion emerged at the synod was that the Church should be more vigilant in ‘marriage preparation training’ and pastoral responsibilities,” said the Cardinal. “A speciality of the synod was that representatives from seven Orthodox churches, the Lutheran church, Anglican church and Methodist church participated in it. Orthodox churches also consider marriage as a scared relationship, and believes in its unity.