Hierarch of UOC: Not every Greek bishop supports Hellenic nationalism

Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: fosfanariou.gr

Among the Orthodox hierarchs of the Church of Greece, far from everyone supports the schism in Universal Orthodoxy committed by Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, as they understand that his actions are dictated by Hellenic nationalism, Metropolitan Theodosy of Cherkasy and Kaniv said in the “Word of the Hierarch” program on the UkrLive TV channel.

He spoke about how a very authoritative Greek bishop said in the circle of his fellow hierarchs: “Are you for the purity of Orthodoxy or for the purity of Hellenism? Are you ready to stand with me for Orthodoxy or for the Hellenic truth?" It appeared not all those present supported the Hellenism, which pushes the head of Phanar and his supporters to anti-canonical actions.

“A lot of hierarchs of the Greek Church understand that the schism caused by Patriarch Bartholomew was dictated by the Hellenic nationalism: a misinterpretation of ancient Orthodox canons in the context of Greek Hellenic nationalism in modern times,” said Metropolitan Theodosy. "There is also a division among the Greek hierarchs, and not all are ready to follow the path of Orthodoxy-splitting nationalism."

As the UOJ reported, Patriarch Bartholomew made a tactical mistake in Ukraine, the UOC hierarch believes.

Read also

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Black, 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.

Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says

Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.