Opinion polls over the last twenty years indicate that Americans have been evolving in their views on gay marriage over the last few years. If we Christians are to be honest with ourselves and reckon with our own history, then we must remain open to the possibility that the meaning of marriage may evolve—just as it has always done.

The traditional teaching on homosexuality as articulated by Metropolitan Jonah in his 2010 open letter to the Armed Forces Chaplains Board ignores the reality of many LGB Orthodox faithful. How are homosexual Orthodox Christians to grow in love, virtue, and relationship with God if they are categorically excluded from the sacramental life of the Church?