Head of schismatic “Church of Montenegro” files an appeal to Phanar
The head of the “Church of Montenegro” has addressed the Ecumenical Patriarch, asking for a review of his canonical case.
On January 18, 2026, the head of the schismatic “Orthodox Church of Montenegro,” Mikhail Dedeić, sent an official letter to Patriarch Bartholomew, requesting that his canonical case be reconsidered and that a dialogue begin regarding the status of the structure he leads. This was reported by Romfea.gr.
In his appeal, Dedeić expresses support for Patriarch Bartholomew's "tireless ecumenical efforts" and "steadfast commitment to inter-Christian dialogue," as well as for the decisions of the Constantinople Patriarchate, including the recognition of the OCU’s autocephaly.
However, he speaks about attempts to discredit "Your name, Your authority, and Your dignity" through "perfidious campaigns":
“The latest media narratives now being promoted even through the issue of the Montenegrin Orthodox Church aim to weaken You in Your historic decision to recognize the autocephaly of the Ukrainian Church, as well as in Your consistent defense of the canonical order in the Balkan, Baltic, and other regions,” the letter says.
Dedeić separately addresses his own canonical status, noting that he is of advanced age and has entered his ninth decade of life. He rejects the accusations that led to his removal from the jurisdiction of the Constantinople Patriarchate, stating that his canonical ministry did not take place within the jurisdiction of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
“Consequently, the accusation of having violated its unity is canonically, historically, and legally unfounded,” he claims.
In conclusion, the head of the schismatic structure declares his readiness to appear before the Phanar’s canonical court and proposes establishing a special commission to study the church situation in Montenegro.
“I hereby declare my readiness to be summoned before the canonical court of the Ecumenical Patriarchate something that has nor occured that far so that all accusations brought against me may be examined publicly, justly, and impartially, and in the spirit of the Holy Canons,” Dedeić emphasizes.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a hierarch of Constantinople called on the UOC to begin commemorating Patriarch Bartholomew.
