Archbishop of Sinai: My life is under threat after monastery clash

Archbishop Damianos of Sinai. Photo: Orthodoxia news agency

On August 27, 2025, Archbishop Damianos of Sinai stated in a video message that his life was at risk following clashes at St. Catherine's Monastery. The hierarch appealed to the governments of Egypt and Greece for protection. This was reported by RNN.

"I appeal to Egypt and Greece to protect me from potential threats. I say this on the day when the entire Orthodox world is preparing to celebrate the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos, and this great celebration is also taking place in our monastery", said the archbishop. He emphasized that the expelled monks remain outside the monastery gates, attempting to re-enter. Inside, Damianos and the remaining monks have locked themselves in, refusing access to anyone to avoid further clashes.

Later, the archbishop reported that the Greek government contacted him. "The government of Greece contacted me on August 27, and I informed them about the situation in the monastery, as well as about my health and the health of the monks who are with me", noted Damianos. He expressed gratitude to Athens and believers from around the world for their support: "Your unanimous support is our unwavering foundation."

The Egyptian authorities have not made any official statements regarding the escalation of the situation around St. Catherine's Monastery yet. Meanwhile, the expelled monks claimed police forces were present and appeared to be siding with them and persistently demanded the occupiers let them in.

The state officials confirmed that they are in open dialogue with the Archbishop of Sinai, closely monitoring the development of the crisis. The Greek government stated that it attaches paramount importance to preserving St. Catherine's Monastery as a shrine of Orthodoxy and a monument of world cultural heritage.

Earlier, the UOJ cited Archbishop Damianos as saying that St. Catherine's Monastery returned to normal life.

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