Greek lawmakers are debating a landmark bill to legalize same-sex marriage. Here's what it means

Lawmakers have begun a debate on a landmark bill to legalize same-sex marriage that would make Greece the first Orthodox Christian country to do so

ATHENS, Greece -- Lawmakers begin a debate Wednesday on a landmark bill to legalize same-sex marriage that would make Greece the first Orthodox Christian country to do so.

The Valentine’s Day session in parliament follows vocal opposition and protests from the church but also a shift in public opinion which – while still divided – is narrowly supportive of the reform.

If approved, the bill would grant same-sex couples full parental rights but not allow male partners to seek children born in Greece through surrogacy.

Here’s a look at the reform and why it’s happening now.

The journey toward legalizing same-sex civil marriage in Greece has been long and contentious, with governments in the past shying away from a confrontation with the Orthodox Church.