The newly elected Archbishop Elia, has given a clear indication of the direction and position the Orthodox Church of Finland will take.
In an interview with a Finnish media outlet, the new Archbishop was quick to clarify that the position of the Orthodox Church in his country is clear: it is the same position taken by the resigned Archbishop Leo, which categorically condemns the Russian aggressive war in Ukraine and the support given by the Russian Church to this war.
Archbishop Elia emphasized that he is in favor of discussion and listening, but that he has no connection with the Serbian Church or with Russia.
I talk to people in countries like Estonia, and Sweden, as well as in North America, Belgium, Poland, and Greece. Our relations with Serbia have been severed because they supported the Russian war in Ukraine. Also, I have never had personal relations with anyone from the Russian Church,” Archbishop Elia said.
His election must also be confirmed by the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and for this purpose, the elected Archbishop will travel there immediately.
Speaking about possible changes he would like to bring to the Church, Archbishop Elia emphasized that he believes in the power of listening. We often hear, but we do not listen, which is especially important in problematic situations. An open discussion does not mean that we will immediately make drastic changes – after all, we are part of the Orthodox world and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, so our Church cannot decide completely independently.
The new Archbishop also commented on the role of women in the Church, emphasizing that he would bring the issue to the Synod of Bishops for discussion. “The Church is much more than bishops and priests. Countless members of our Church work in various ways for the common good. The question of the role of women in our Church is also something we must dare to address.
We need to listen to those who are affected. In many local churches, they are not used to even raising such questions about the role of women. It is remarkable that when I participated in an Orthodox-Catholic meeting in Crete, I proposed the topic of the role of women in the Church. Immediately there was a deep silence.”
