Head of Greek Church on recognition of the OCU: This is what the USA wanted

The Primate of the Orthodox Church of Greece, Archbishop Ieronymos, said that America "wanted" him to recognize the OCU, the Dogma edition reports.

In the context of the conversation about the "autocephaly" of the OCU, Archbishop Ieronymos said that regarding the "Ukrainian issue", he was visited by the ambassador of America and three times by the ambassador of Russia.

“I told the American ambassador that I would be on the side of the patriarch (Bartholomew – Ed.), and therefore your will (to recognize the OCU – Ed.) would be fulfilled, but this is not a political choice. I am not doing this because America wants it, I am doing it because I respect what the patriarch stands for,” the head of the GOC noted.

In a conversation with the Russian ambassador, Archbishop Ieronymos said that he and Patriarch Bartholomew were "one family." “How can I leave my family to go somewhere else? I am on the patriarch’s side,” he summed up.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the Primate of the Greek Church spoke about cooperation with the US Ambassador on the issue of recognition of the OCU.

Read also

Metr. Saba Appeals for Lebanon Relief Donations

Metr. Saba calls for urgent donations to aid displaced families in Lebanon.

New Orthodox Parish School Set to Open in Pennsylvania

St. John Chrysostom School prepares to bring classical Orthodox education to York, PA this fall.

Ancient Monastic Complex Found in Egypt

A newly discovered Egyptian site highlights the scale and sophistication of early monastic life.

Ukrainian Protodeacon Alleges False Prosecutions of Priests

Protodeacon Novinsky alleges widespread fabrication in cases against Ukrainian Orthodox clergy.

Abp. Mark Visits Holy Apostles Parish for Lenten Weekend

Abp. Mark’s visit blended worship, teaching, and encouragement during the Lenten journey.

Abp. Alexei Delivers Lenten Homily in Anchorage

A Lenten homily in Alaska called the faithful back to patient, step-by-step transformation in Christ.