Metr. Panteleimon Placed on Indefinite Suspension Pending Review

ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT — The Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa has announced the indefinite suspension of Metr. Panteleimon of Ptolemais following what it described as an incident that occurred in Athens.

According to an official statement issued by the Patriarchate, the decision was made by Patr. Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa while authorities seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding the case. Church officials indicated that the suspension will remain in effect until the matter has been fully examined.

Police in Athens arrested Metr. Panteleimon on June 11 after residents complained that he had allegedly exposed himself in public and engaged in indecent conduct. Authorities reportedly filed a case for insulting sexual dignity after detaining the suspect, who identified himself as a clergyman while in custody.

The Patriarchate’s statement made clear that the action is temporary and intended to remain in place while the facts are established. The official statement reads in full:

“From the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa, it is hereby announced that, by a sacred decision of His Beatitude our Pope and Patriarch Theodore II, His Eminence Metropolitan Pantaleimon of Ptolemais, following the unfortunate incident that took place in Athens, is placed on indefinite suspension, pending its full clarification.”

Previously, the UOJ reported that Greek police arrested three Old Calendarist priests in a major cocaine and human-smuggling bust.