Met. Emmanuel of Chalcedon: OCU Autocephaly 'Absolutely Justified'

ISTANBUL — Met. Emmanuel of Chalcedon addressed pressing ecclesiastical issues with geopolitical implications. He urged Egypt to respect the autonomous status of St. Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai, emphasizing its historical significance since Justinian’s era. “What has been respected for centuries must be upheld today,” he stated, noting the Archbishop’s succession process ensures stability.

On Ukraine, Emmanuel defended the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s granting of “autocephaly” to the Orthodox Church in Ukraine in 2019 as “absolutely justified,” though he acknowledged challenges due to Russia’s invasion. “Time and patience are needed for Ukraine’s church to find its path post-war,” he said.

He criticized Russia’s ecclesiastical overreach, particularly its intrusion into the Patriarchate of Alexandria, signaling Moscow’s ambitions in Africa. “They seek influence beyond the former Soviet Union,” he warned, urging support for Alexandria.

The Metropolitan is a one of the principle architects of the Ukrainian schism. He also serves as the Phanar’s “Ukraine czar,” overseeing all affairs related to the war-torn country.

Emmanuel highlighted Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s upcoming White House meeting with President Donald Trump on September 15, where issues like Ukraine and Orthodoxy’s global role will be discussed. He also noted the 2025 commemoration of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, with Pope Leo XIV’s planned visit to the Patriarchate, fostering Orthodox-Catholic unity for a shared Easter celebration.

Read also