Metropolitan Naoum of Strumica commented on Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid’s recent statements about the conditions set by the Ecumenical Patriarchate for granting the Tomos of Autocephaly during an interview with local media. He emphasized the unwavering support of the Bishops of the Church of North Macedonia for their Primate and the decisions of the Holy Synod, including the request for Autocephaly from the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Metropolitan Naoum stated, “We aim for a universally recognized Tomos, not just acceptance from two Churches. Any position taken in the current Constantinople-Moscow conflict could endanger our hard-earned autocephaly and achievements.”
Addressing the three conditions linked to granting the Tomos of Autocephaly to the Archdiocese of Ohrid, rejected by Archbishop Stefan, Metropolitan Naoum clarified that the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s request is not about recognizing the Church in question but about co-celebrating the Divine Liturgy with Bishops of the Church of Ukraine.
Metropolitan Naoum believes that finding a solution is possible, as other Churches have resolved similar issues. He stressed the importance of maintaining ecclesiastical unity amid differing opinions from Constantinople and Moscow.
He expressed confidence that neither Moscow nor other entities desire a complete schism and urged for responsible decision-making within the Orthodox leadership to preserve unity.
Metropolitan Naoum affirmed that any request to alter the constitutional name is deemed unfeasible. He trusts that the Ecumenical Patriarchate will not demand this change as it falls outside the realm of ecclesiastical matters.
Discussing the national aspects in Church names, he proposed a balance between national identity and unity to avoid divisions within the Orthodox Church.
Regarding the diaspora issue, Metropolitan Naoum assured that there are no significant problems and highlighted the Archdiocese of Ohrid’s simple request regarding the titles of Bishops.
He concluded by expressing hope that the Ecumenical Patriarchate will grant the Tomos with due privileges, recognizing the historical continuity of the Ohrid Archdiocese for the benefit of all local Churches.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas