Head of Phanar on Olympics opening: Blasphemy is not progress

Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: glasove.com

The head of the Patriarchate of Constantinople, Bartholomew, condemned the Olympics opening ceremony that parodied Christ's 'Last Supper' with the twelve apostles, calling these performances an offense "not only against Christianity and the Holy Gospel but also against every civilized person who recognizes the right to believe and respect religious symbols," reports fosfanariou.gr.

"These images not only failed to embellish the ceremony but also cast a shadow over it. Blasphemy against God is not progress, nor is it a right to insult the religious beliefs of our fellow human beings. We hope that the spontaneous expression of disgust and disapproval from the public has sent a sufficiently loud signal to decision-makers and serves as a source of hope to prevent such actions in the future," wrote Patriarch Bartholomew.

As the UOJ reported, Trump criticized the Olympics opening ceremony for its parody of Christ, calling it a disgrace.

Read also

UOC Hierarch: The Church Does Not Endorse 'Holy War' Concept

"The assertion that the so-called 'special military operation' is a 'Holy War' contradicts the basic principles of Christian morality," Metr. Yevlohiy said.

Georgian Bishops Finalize Procedures for Patriarchal Election

Head of public relations for the Georgian Church says bishops finalized election procedures while emphasizing unity ahead of the patriarchal council.

SVS Press Releases New Volume by St. Maximus the Confessor

The publisher's new St. Maximus volume explores the theological foundations of Orthodox Christology and the defense of Chalcedon.

Abp. Daniel Announces Synodal Clergy Awards in Chicago Diocese

The Orthodox Church in America's Synodal awards recognized clergy across multiple ranks for dedicated service in the Midwestern diocese.

Registration Opens for First OCA-Wide Clergy Wives Retreat

The Orthodox Church in America’s first churchwide clergy wives retreat aims to strengthen ministry families through prayer, fellowship, and renewal.

Kimberly Guilfoyle Meets Ecumenical Patriarch in Athens

Kimberly Guilfoyle’s meeting with Patr. Bartholomew highlighted support for religious freedom and the global mission of the Orthodox Church.