USA: Episcopal pastor repented for 17-year-old LGBT criticism

Max Lucado preaches at the National Religious Broadcasters convention in Nashville. A photo: christianpost.com

Max Lucado preaches at the National Religious Broadcasters convention in Nashville. A photo: christianpost.com

Pastor of the Anglican Episcopal Church of the United States Max Lucado in an open letter apologized to LGBT representatives for criticizing same-sex marriage and homosexuality in his sermon 17 years ago after the Washington National Cathedral was criticized for inviting him as a guest speaker, reports the website ChristianPost.com.

In particular, some members of the Episcopal Church, known for its liberal views on LGBT people, petitioned to cancel Lucado's invitation to preach because of his 2004 speech in which he “expressed fears that homosexuality would lead to legalized incest and compared gay marriage to incest and bestiality."

“ It grieves me that my words have hurt or been used to hurt the LGBTQ community. I apologize to you and I ask forgiveness of Christ, ”the pastor wrote in his letter of repentance.

As reported, the RCC in Austria has published a book about church blessings for same-sex couples.

SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says

According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.

Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia

During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris

Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.

Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit

More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.

Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk

Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.

Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death

The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.