Patriarch Theodoros: ROC has disregarded principles of ecclesiastical law
Patriarch Theodoros accused the Russian Orthodox Church of using secular methods and financial influence in Africa.
During his speech in Crete, Patriarch Theodoros of Alexandria once again addressed the issue of the Russian Church’s incursion into the African continent, reports Orthodoxtimes.
He emphasized: “At the Patriarchate, though few, we are boundless in spirit, raising our voices against all forms of violence, injustice, and exploitation.”
“We do not hesitate to condemn, with a resounding voice, the illicit intervention of the Russian Church, which has regrettably disregarded every principle of ecclesiastical law and order. Through secular methods and financial influence, it seeks to undermine what our Fathers and the Ecumenical Councils have safeguarded over the centuries. We will continue, at every opportunity, to reaffirm the call to 'stand firm' and to strive resolutely to preserve the sacred traditions and values we have received and are entrusted to pass on to future generations,” said Patriarch Theodoros.
Reflecting on his patriarchal ministry in Africa, which he called the “continent of the future,” the head of the Alexandrian Church spoke about children “with dark bodies and pure souls, who know how to find joy in simple things, to celebrate, dance, and sing to God.”
As previously reported, Alexandrian hierarch had earlier accused the ROC Exarchate in Africa of committing “genocide against Orthodox Christians.”
