Head of Phanar "fraternally" urges Patriarch Kirill to give up the throne

Commenting on the position of Patriarch Kirill in relation to the war in Ukraine, the head of the Church of Constantinople, Patriarch Bartholomew, said that it is better to step down than to support the war, The Pillar reports.

In an interview with the publication, Patriarch Bartholomew noted that “What is still more painful to us is the fact that the Patriarchate of Moscow has stooped to the level of submitting to political ambitions of the Russian Federation.”

“We have repeatedly condemned the aggression and violence, just as we have fervently and fraternally appealed to the Patriarch of Moscow that he separate himself from political crimes, even if it means stepping down from his throne,” the Patriarch of Constantinople emphasized.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that, according to the head of the Phanar, the words of Patriarch Kirill that those who died in the war will enter the Kingdom of God as martyrs do not correspond to the Orthodox doctrine.

Read also

Abp. Elpidophoros Approves "Food-sensitive" Eucharist

When Accessibility Crosses the Line: A Call for Faithful Integrity in Liturgical Practice

Kenyan Orthodox Priest Targeted, Guard Severely Wounded in Machete Attack

"We must not repay violence with violence." —Fr. Antipas

Procession of the Icon of the Theotokos at the Holy Monastery of Iveron on Mount Atho

Monks and pilgrims accompanied the Iveron Icon in a solemn procession around the Monastery and along the shore on Bright Tuesday.

The Mystery of Christian Love - Eulogy for the Funeral of Schema-Archimandrite Panteleimon

In his eulogy, Igumen Gabriel, Abbot-elect of Holy Cross, spoke of Fr. Panteleimon’s legacy and spiritual testament.

Trump and Zelensky Meet Before Pope Francis' Funeral in the Vatican

The meeting lasted about 15 minutes and focused on achieving peace in Ukraine.

In Wales, Muslim Teenagers Set Fire to Christian Church

The two teenagers, recent arrivals from Pakistan, were arrested on suspicion of arson.