Abp. Elpidophoros Asks Romania to Recognize OCU

Abp. Elpidophoros meets with Romania's Minister of Foreign Affairs. Photo: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos

NEW YORK CITY — In a recent meeting with Romania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Oana-Silviu Toiu, Abp. Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America used congratulatory remarks on the centennial celebration of the Romanian Orthodox Church's receiving of autocephaly from Constantinople as a front to encourage the same recognition for the schismatic Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU).

As reported by the Orthodox Observer and Orthodox Times, His Eminence "recalled that, much like Ukraine, Romania received its autocephaly from the Ecumenical Patriarchate" and that that decision has never been regretted, as "the Church of Romania is today among the most progressive and successful churches in the Orthodox world."

After speaking about his acquaintance with Pat. Daniel of Romania, Abp. Elpidophoros expressed hope that the autocephaly of the OCU would also be recognized by the Patriarch, calling "such a step a natural confirmation of the Romanian Church's long tradition of independence and leadership in the region."

Among several comments made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, one was that faith communities have a responsibility to nurture trust where confidence in government or institutions is challenged, and that "faith leaders can play an essential role in strengthening resilience against those who seek to undermine democracy."

It is important to note that the current position of the Romanian Orthodox Church is that of the vast majority of world Orthodoxy — only the Patriarchate of Constantinople, the Church of Greece, and the Patriarchate of Alexandria have recognized the autocephaly of the OCU. Abp. Georgios of Cyprus independently commemorates Met. Epifany (Sergeii Dumenko) of the OCU despite the Holy Synod of Cyprus making no formal recognition of the schismatics. Notably, all of these are "Greek churches."

In short, only three of the 14 universally recognized autocephalous Orthodox churches recognize the OCU. Abp. Elpidophoros isn't asking Romania to get along with the long agreed upon program — he is asking them to join a movement of protest against the majority of the Church. 

This meeting between Elpidophoros and the Romanian Minister took place at the archdiocesan headquarters at the conclusion of the United Nations General Assembly meeting.

Previously, UOJ reported that Serhii "Epifaniy" Dumenko, head of the schismatic Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), is allegedly planning a visit to Mount Athos, supported by Patriarch Bartholomew.

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