Angelos Syrigos, a member of the Greek parliament and a former deputy minister, referred to the role of the Russian Church and its attempt to infiltrate the Greek Orthodox Patriarchates and Churches.
As he pointed out, for some time now, there has been an attempt by the Russians to infiltrate the Greek Orthodox Patriarchates and the Churches.
“The Patriarchate of Jerusalem, like the other Ancient Patriarchates, predominantly consists of Greek or Cypriot clergy, serving a relatively small population with substantial needs. Within this framework, even modest financial contributions can significantly impact its operations. There are ongoing concerns about Russia’s attempts to exert influence over the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. While there have been instances where it appears to make progress towards this goal, at other times, these efforts have been halted. They made efforts to do the same thing within the Patriarchate of Alexandria. There, the resolute stance adopted by Patriarch Theodore prevented Russian infiltration into the Patriarchate. Consequently, they sought to establish an Exarchate as an alternative approach. This endeavor is heavily financed by Russian resources.”
Angelos Syrigos underscored that a similar situation prevails on Mount Athos, where Russia, through financial aid to some monasteries, is trying to increase its influence. “The war in Ukraine reduced the number of Russian pilgrims to Mount Athos, which was even greater before the recognition of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine by the Church of Greece. This was the primary factor that sparked tensions and has led to tensions among hierarchs. I attentively listen to all views, recognizing that it was a decision made by the Ecumenical Patriarchate, subsequently endorsed by the Church of Greece, a step the Church of Albania did not take, for instance.”
He also spoke of the ways of infiltration by the Russian Church. “When a Metropolitan of the Church of Greece needs funds to manage the balance sheets in nursing homes, Russia steps in and offers assistance. At the same time, various proposals are made to establish a spiritual connection between Russia and Greece,” he said.
He also referred to the recent elections of a new Archbishop in Cyprus. In accordance with the procedure, the people vote for three hierarchs, who form the “Triprosopo,” from which a new Archbishop will emerge. There was significant pressure for all Orthodox residents of the island to participate in the vote, including the 50,000-60,000 Russian residents living on the island of Cyprus. Ultimately, the proposal led to granting voting rights to permanent residents, significantly reducing the number of Russians eligible to vote. “It was clear that there was an attempt to influence voters. If the Russians participated, an Archbishop who was a supporter of Russia would have been elected,” he stressed.
He also added that during the period of the coronavirus, the Russian Orthodox Church tried to pass on the view that, despite what was happening with the closed churches, Orthodox believers should normally go on Sundays to attend the liturgy. Their aim was to create social division at the time when the pandemic was raging. This was prevented by the serious stance adopted by the Church of Greece,” he concluded.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
