Czech Ecumenical Council of Churches Suspends Membership of Orthodox Church

A church belonging to the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia. Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr

PRAGUE — The Ecumenical Council of Churches in the Czech Republic has suspended the membership of the Orthodox Church in the Czech Lands for one year, citing what it called a serious erosion of trust and cooperation, Radio Prague International reports. In a press release, the council pointed to concerns about potential Russian influence, the alleged misuse of church structures for pro-Russian propaganda, and non-transparent financial management.

The Orthodox Church has repeatedly denied accusations that it is pro-Russian or that it supports Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

The Ministry of Culture also notified the council that the church has repeatedly failed to fulfill its financial obligations to the state and to its own employees.

The Ecumenical Council is "aimed at fostering cooperation among different Christian denominations."

Previously, UOJ reported that the Synod of the Czech Lands and Slovakia voiced alarm over persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

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