ANSWER:
No - this is a recent and modern issue which is in many ways very problematic. Fr. John Breck has written much on bioethical issues and his books are a good place to start. The main problem is the very high risk that more than 1 egg will be fertilized, resulting in "extra fertilized eggs" wich are really embryos - human beings - being stored or destroyed. Considering this issue, the number of orphans in the world and the lack of emphasis on "biological descendants" in the Christian revelation, it would seem that the overall position should be at the very least extremely cautious (i.e. requiring full disclosure to anyone interested in this option) if not more categorically negative. The Orthodox view will always be to consult with one's priest, spiritual father and/or bishop to receive adequate spiritual guidance and moral strength. |
