The trend of “political baptisms” or “secular naming ceremonies” has been gaining attention recently, as more parents choose not to baptize their children, leaving the decision about religion to their adulthood. This trend, along with other social changes like civil marriage and partnerships, has raised concerns within the Church as it is seen as a departure from Orthodox tradition.
In an interview with thraki.com.gr, Metropolitan Panteleimon of Xanthi and Peritheorion expressed his discontent with the increasing distance some individuals are taking from religious traditions. He emphasized the importance of baptism as a form of spiritual protection for children, stating that leaving children unbaptized is considered a crime.
Metropolitan Panteleimon highlighted Greece’s demographic challenges, noting the decline in births and rise in deaths. He warned about the consequences of removing God from schools and lives, stating that it creates a void for the antichrist to fill. He stressed the responsibility of parents to baptize their children, comparing it to essential vaccinations that parents decide on for their children’s well-being.
The Metropolitan also mentioned the Ministry of Education’s role in removing religion from the curriculum and how teachers used to bring students to church in the past. He noted the negative consequences society is facing due to distancing itself from religious traditions.