On Thursday, Greece’s parliament granted approval to a groundbreaking bill, endorsing same-sex civil marriage—an historic triumph celebrated with cheers from both spectators within the parliamentary walls and the crowds assembled on the streets of Athens. This legislation affords same-sex couples the privileges of marriage and adoption, marking a significant milestone after years of tireless advocacy by the LGBT community striving for marriage equality in the traditionally conservative social landscape of the country. Despite stiff opposition from the Church, the center-right government of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis managed to pass the measure with 176 votes in favor and 76 against. Two lawmakers abstained, and 46 were not present.

The measure is the first in an Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex adoption, and it will also allow gay couples full parental recognition for any child they have biologically or adopted after their wedding. However, it still bars same-sex couples from using assisted reproductive technology or surrogate mothers, a procedure usually reserved for heterosexual couples who have trouble conceiving. The Church slammed the measure as an attempt to impose a new reality that will lead to a “chaos” of the nation’s social fabric.

But the move was backed by four center-left and leftist parties, including the main opposition, Syriza, and opinion polls suggest that most Greeks support it. The issue has failed to trigger deep divisions in a nation more worried about the high cost of living.

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After the vote, the head of a gay-rights group called for a celebration. “Tonight is a day of joy,” he told supporters on Facebook. “This is a new milestone for human rights, reflecting today’s Greece — a progressive and democratic country, passionately committed to European values.”

While many LGBTQ activists celebrated outside parliament, supporters of the Church also held small protests near the building in central Athens. Some waved rainbow flags, and others held religious icons. The Church has argued that the law will lead to a breakdown of family structures and erode religious values in the country.

Mitsotakis had a challenging task passing the legislation, as he had only a slim majority in parliament. He needed the support of the left-wing coalition partners to overcome strong opposition from his own center-right New Democracy party. Ultimately, he secured 176 votes by counting abstentions and declaring two lawmakers present.

While the legalization of same-sex marriage is a huge step forward, the fight for equal rights in Greece is far from over. The country has a long history of discrimination against its LGBT population. Still, in recent years, it has made significant progress on critical issues such as gender identity recognition and the ban on so-called conversion therapy for minors. The upcoming European elections could push the country to the right and jeopardize its gains in pushing for LGBT rights. But advocates say that is no reason to slow down. They are working on other proposals, such as banning discrimination based on sexual orientation when applying for public jobs or renting an apartment.