An Orthodox Christian Theological Ethic of Childbearing: An Analysis of Continuity and Change

Does the Orthodox Church have a normative and coherent theological ethic of childbearing that addresses the realities of the twenty-first century and is responsive to scientific and technological developments? This article attempts to answer this question in light of recent Orthodox Church statements that illuminate both the allegiance the Orthodox Church maintains to certain theological and ethical concerns when it comes to childbearing and—to some degree—its changing teachings on issues of childbearing in response to advancements in technology. Abortion, contraception, and reproductive technologies are addressed. The lacunae in the Orthodox Church’s treatment of these matters are also considered, as well as the life-giving vision of humanity found in its theological ethic of childbearing.