CICERO, IL [Synergy] — Orthodox Christian Synergy, the Chicago-area Pan-Orthodox association, will host its 17th annual Symposium at Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Cicero, IL, on Saturday, October 15, 2011. Protopresbyter Thomas Hopko will address the symposium theme, “Orthodoxy and Homosexuality.”

According to Michele Hagerman, Synergy President and member of the Diocese of the Midwest’s Holy Resurrection Church, Palatine, IL, “the scope of this symposium is a frank presentation about homosexuality as an issue of Orthodox faith and life facing the faithful. The intention is to focus on how Orthodoxy understands the phenomena of homosexuality, how Orthodox Christians with same-sex attractions are to deal with their condition, and how Orthodox Christians, especially clergymen and family members, are to relate to Orthodox Christians and all people who are same-sex attracted, rather than focusing on related cultural, social, or legal issues.”

Father Thomas will offer two presentations: “Theological Vision: Orthodox Christian Faith and Human Sexuality” and “Spiritual Practice: Orthodox Christian Life and Homosexual Attraction and Behavior.”

Among Father Thomas’ books is Christian Faith and Same-Sex Attraction: Eastern Orthodox Reflections, published by Conciliar Press in 2006.

Registration fee, which includes continental breakfast and lunch, is $35.00 for individuals and $50.00 for couples until October 7. High school and college students may register at the reduced rate of $20.00.

To register or to obtain additional information, visit Synergy’s web site at www.chicagosynergy.org/symposium.html or send an e-mail to Ms. Hagerman at chicagosynergy@gmail.com.