Georgian priests: We hope the head of Phanar will be judged by the Council

The head of the Phanar and Serhiy Dumenko. Photo: pravda.com.ua

On April 20, 2023, the clergy of the Georgian Orthodox Church came out in support of the UOC and stated that they hope for a church trial against Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople.

In an appeal published on the Spasi and Sokhrani YouTube channel, representatives of the Georgian Church spoke about their vision of the situation with the UOC.

Archpriest David Isakadze stated that "unfortunately, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew played a big role in the formation of the schismatic group of the false Metropolitan Epifaniy, which is currently persecuting ... (the UOC)."

According to Father David, the head of the Phanar "acted illegally interfering in the jurisdiction of another Church, which is a canonical violation and is subject to punishment."

“We hope that he (Bartholomew – Ed.) will be judged by the Church Council, and if this does not happen in this world, then he will not escape the Divine Judgment,” said the priest.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the priests of the Georgian Church came out in defense of the UOC.

Read also

Wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon Makes Historic First Visit to Japan

The wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon made its first-ever pilgrimage to Japan, drawing hundreds of faithful to Tokyo and Kyoto for prayer, veneration, and a historic celebration of Orthodox unity.

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Cherny, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.

Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again

A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.

OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience

More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.

Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors

The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.

Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies

ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.