UOC hierarch: Phanar seeks more dialogue with RCC than with the Orthodox

Bishop Victor (Kotsaba). Photo: facebook.com/V.D. Kotsaba

Bishop Victor (Kotsaba) of Baryshevka, Vicar of the Kyiv Metropolis, head of the Representation of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to European international organizations, believes that Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople is more likely to engage in dialogue with Catholics than with Orthodox Christians.

Vladyka made such a conclusion, commenting on the words of the Greek journalist Peggy Doku on his Telegram channel, who believes that Patriarch Bartholomew “will not change his decision” regarding the OCU since “he does not believe in dialogue and does not want to accept the fact that he makes mistakes".

“Is Patriarch Bartholomew really not ready for dialogue? Probably, yes. He has repeatedly stated about the "finality" and "incontestability" of his decision on the OCU," the bishop recalled.

He also noted that "concelebration with representatives of the OCU, attempts to draw other Local Churches into the orbit of their influence speak of one thing – Patriarch Bartholomew seeks more dialogue with Catholics than with his Orthodox brothers".

Vladyka stressed that the head of the Phanar "does not want to discuss his position on the OCU, and "unity" in his understanding means only one thing – unconditional agreement with any of his decisions".

"In this case, the Orthodox Churches have no choice but to work on the convocation of the Council, which should assess the actions of Patriarch Bartholomew," the bishop summed up.

According to Bishop Victor, most of the monasteries of Athos are against the recognition of the OCU.

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