Abp. of Crete Demands Withdrawal of State Provision Limiting Church Autonomy

Photo: Orthodox Times

HERAKLION — Abp. Eugenios of Crete on Sunday called for the immediate repeal of a recent government provision that restricts the reassignment of Metropolitans to vacant dioceses, warning it undermines the Church of Crete’s self-governance.

Speaking during the August 25 feast of St. Titus before officials, clergy, and a large congregation, Eugenios stressed that the Church of Crete’s Statute of 1961 “must remain intact and inviolable,” affirming its full canonical dependence on the Patriarchate of Constantinople. He confirmed that Pat. Bartholomew had been informed and expressed confidence the state would reverse what he called a “mistake.”

The Archbishop thanked clergy for their solidarity, emphasizing that the Church’s defense of its rights is not about privileges but principles. He urged unity and calm, assuring the faithful that “our only desire is to walk in the footsteps of our First Shepherd.”

The controversy comes amid the unresolved election of a new Metropolitan of Kydonia and Apokoronas. The Patriarchate of Constantinople has moved to abolish the transfer system (metathetó), a step seen as blocking Met. Amphilochios of Kissamos from assuming the post. A marathon Synod session failed to reach agreement after a letter from Constantinople warned against transfers, revealing sharp divisions within the hierarchy.

In a public statement, the Church of Crete denounced interference by both state and ecclesiastical actors, accusing the government of misinterpreting its Statute through an amendment to a Defense Ministry bill.

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