(Image source from: Greek Parliament nods for same sex marriage legalization})

Greek Parliament has approved the legalization of same sex marriages. This comes two years after a European Court condemned the country for discrimination. The legislation to legalize partnerships for gay couples was approved. The results were announced early Wednesday.

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Lawmakers voted in favor of the bill with 193-56 majority to extend civil partnerships to same sex couples. The provisions concerning family law with potential to adopt applications have been dropped before the vote.

The bill was backed by the lawmakers belonging to the governing Syriza party, spliting the main opposition conservatives.

Meanwhile, the law was opposed by the conservative bishops in Greece’s powerful Orthodox Church. They argue that the bill undermined the institution of family. The church bells tolled opposing the bill.

Bishop Amvrosios of the southern town of Kalavryta, said, "Homosexuality is a deviation from the laws of nature. It is a social crime, a sin. Those who experience or support it are not normal people."

Hundreds of pro-gay rights protesters congregated before the vote, outside parliament. They gathered beneath a large banner written, “Love is the law.”

-Sumana