Munich and the Triumph of Canonical Orthodoxy

The Holy Synod of ROCOR's recent meeting in Munich was profoundly consequential—and not just for its ruling on the glorification of Seraphim Rose.

According to UOJ sources within the Holy Synod, in the preceding days, the Sobor—led by its First Hierarch, Metr. Nicholas—vetoed the reception of two former clerics of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and rejected the proposed creation of a so-called “Hellenic Vicariate.” This decision shows a refreshing and much-needed commitment to upholding the Holy Canons, despite inter-jurisdictional disagreements.

No doubt some within ROCOR were tempted to form this “Hellenic Vicariate” as a way of retaliating against GOARCH for its creation of a “Slavic Vicariate” some years ago. For those who don’t know, the Slavic Vicariate is a group of defrocked ROCOR clerics led by the former archimandrite Alexander Belya. It was created solely to spite ROCOR, and provoked a tremendous outcry from the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States. 

Again, no doubt certain elements within ROCOR would have welcomed the opportunity to "get even" with GOARCH by starting a “Hellenic Vicariate” to receive disaffected Greek priests and bishops. Yet Metr. Nicholas and the Synod chose the high ground. They opted not to escalate. That restraint is very much to His Eminence's credit. 

To be clear, ROCOR has in the past received clergy from other jurisdictions—often those under the Ecumenical Patriarchate—without a canonical release, straining relations with sister Churches. This contributed to an unfortunate reputation for not playing well with others. Such perceptions were never entirely fair, but they “didn’t come from nowhere” as the saying goes.

What can’t be denied is that ROCOR’s reputation has improved dramatically in the few short years since Metr. Nicholas assumed the mantle of First Hierarch. This latest decision is very much in keeping with the new ethos being cultivated by His Eminence.

Lest anyone should say otherwise, Metr. Nicholas's position on the reception of these clerics and the possibility of forming a “Hellenic Vicariate” are not for want of courage. He has shown fortitude under pressure many times in the past. He has shown a willingness to follow his conscience even if it placed his popularity—indeed, his personal safety—at risk. For instance, in November 2025, His Eminence did not bow to political pressure and attacks from the media during the Society of St. John of Shanghai’s "legislative action day" in defense of the persecuted Ukrainian Orthodox Church. This initial effort from Metr. Nicholas—together with hierarchs and clerics of several other jurisdictions—led to roughly 200 Orthodox Christians from all jurisdictions participating in the Society of Saint John's historic Day of Action in December 2025.

The Sobor's decision shows a consistent support for canonical Orthodoxy, even when it seems to benefit “the other side.” Metr. Nicholas shows the proper respect to his brother bishops, even those who do not always show the same respect to him. This is precisely how Orthodox leadership should function.

Rumor has it that Metr. Nicholas sent a letter to Abp. Makarios of Australia. In it, His Eminence expressed regret over any misunderstanding regarding Dcn. Christos Karafotias, requesting that the Archdiocese restore him to his proper rank. Such solicitude reveals the heart of a true pastor. A true shepherd isn’t afraid to humble himself when speaking to his brother bishops—especially for the sake of the “little ones” placed under his care.

In just four tumultuous years, Metr. Nicholas has established himself as one of the most consequential First Hierarchs in ROCOR’s history. By placing the Holy Canons above “church politics,” he strengthens not only his own flock but the witness of the entire Orthodox Church.

May God grant him many years.

Note: This article has received substantial edits to more reflect more recent information.