Estonian Church: We will separate from the Moscow Patriarchate in two stages

Estonian Orthodox Church. Photo: Err

The Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate plans to amend its statutes and separate from the MP, with the future goal of uniting with the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Consultations will be held for this purpose, as stated in the EOC MP's communique.

"The EOC MP has presented its vision for a two-stage process of disconnecting from the Moscow Patriarchate: first, by amending the current statutes, and second, by initiating consultations with the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church to find ways to unite all Orthodox believers in Estonia into a single church in the future," the statement said.

By the end of August, the Church will present specific proposals to the Ministry of Internal Affairs for amending the statutes, as well as the necessary steps and timeline for implementing the amendments. Based on this, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will formulate its position no later than the end of September. The ministry will also be informed of the date for a meeting with the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church.

The Estonian Ministry of Internal Affairs has stated that it expects the EOC MP to fully separate from the Moscow Patriarchate both canonically and legally, as "the state must protect the population of Estonia from the influence of a hostile regime." It is reported that a solution will be found through cooperation and that the state does not intend to close churches under the jurisdiction of the EOC MP or the Pühtitsa Convent, nor to hinder the work of congregations. "Freedom of religion is guaranteed, and services will continue," assured Ministry of Internal Affairs representative Kuit.

As the UOJ previously reported, a hierarch of the Estonian Church stated earlier that the issue of subordinating to the ROC is being currently addressed.

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