The Orthodox Church is facing a schism initiated by the Patriarchate of Moscow, which is actively working to deepen and perpetuate this division. The Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa, one of the original Patriarchates of the Church, has been fulfilling the mission of spreading Christianity to nations across Africa. However, the Moscow Patriarchate has violated the canonical jurisdiction of the Patriarchate of Alexandria by establishing its own presence in Africa.
This unlawful incursion by the Moscow Patriarchate has been denounced by His Beatitude Patriarch Theodore II, who has been defending religious freedom and the canonical order of the Church. In recognition of his efforts, Patriarch Theodore received the Athenagoras Human Rights Award and has been vocal in condemning Russia’s actions in Africa.
Despite strong opposition from Patriarch Theodore and the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Moscow Patriarchate has continued its divisive activities in Africa. These illegal actions threaten the unity of the Church and have been met with condemnation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate, which stands in unwavering support of the Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa.
Russia’s intrusion into Africa has the potential to divide the Church and cause confusion among the faithful. The ongoing conflict between the Patriarchates highlights the importance of upholding the canonical order and unity of the Orthodox Church. The Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate express their solidarity with His All-Holiness, His Beatitude Patriarch Theodore, and His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros in denouncing these actions that undermine the unity of God’s Holy Church.
Source: archons.org
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