Church of Greece hierarch criticizes joint celebrations of Phanar and RCC

Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythira and Antikythera of the Church of Greece. Photo: Orthodoxia News Agency

On December 8, 2025, Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythira of the Church of Greece criticized the joint celebrations of the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council, held by the Phanar together with the Roman Catholic Church at the end of November. The information was reported by the Orthodoxia News Agency.

The hierarch stated that the format of the events, the participation of Pope Leo XIV, and the declaration signed by both sides raise serious theological and canonical concerns.

“The celebration was not truly pan-Orthodox, since the participation of the Pope of Rome made it impossible for many Primates to attend,” the metropolitan noted.

Of particular concern, he said, is the joint declaration signed by Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Leo XIV. Metropolitan Seraphim stressed that the document does not take into account the profound theological differences between Orthodoxy and Catholicism. “Unity is impossible without a clear grounding in the dogmas, canons, and Holy Tradition,” the hierarch stated.

He also pointed to the divergence between Orthodox and Catholic approaches to the question of unity. He noted that Catholicism permits alliances with Protestant denominations which, in his view, have departed from traditional Christian teaching. “Catholicism enters into communion with communities that bless same-sex unions and admit LGBT and women to the priesthood,” Metropolitan Seraphim emphasized.

The hierarch added that Orthodox reactions to these events were mixed: some faithful received them positively, while many expressed concern and bewilderment. He underlined that such initiatives require particular caution and fidelity to the Church’s Tradition. “Today it is especially important to discern what is Orthodox and canonical, and what exceeds the bounds of Tradition,” the metropolitan said.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Patriarch Bartholomew and the Pope signed a declaration on the path toward full communion.

Read also