Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has written a strongly-worded letter to Patriarch Theodore of Alexandria, condemning the deliberate infiltration of the Russian Orthodox Church in Africa as non-brotherly and anti-Christian.
In his letter, responding to a previous communication from the Patriarch of Alexandria, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew emphasizes the serious threat of ethnophyletism to the Church. He expresses concern that the Church is currently facing internal turmoil and nationalist ideologies that are damaging its unity.
The Ecumenical Patriarch points out the increasing disregard for ecclesiastical order, both within Orthodox circles and in the eyes of the international community.
Regarding the Russian Church’s encroachment into the canonical boundaries of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, Patriarch Bartholomew warns that the hierarchs of the Moscow Patriarchate will be held accountable for their actions and the harm caused to the Church of Alexandria and its new converts seeking salvation.
In strong language, the Ecumenical Patriarch criticizes the Russian Church’s actions in Africa, accusing its hierarchs of prioritizing racial dominance over ecclesiastical unity. He condemns their behavior and their allegiance to wealth rather than Christ.
The letter also touches on Russia’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine and the stance of the Russian Orthodox Church. Bartholomew expresses disappointment in the blessing of weapons against Orthodox Ukrainians defending their country.
Concluding the letter, the Ecumenical Patriarch reassures the Patriarch of Alexandria that the Church of Alexandria is not alone in facing these challenges.
The letter is available in Greek:
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas