Metropolitan Antony of Volokolamsk, Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, accused Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of supporting the “ecclesiastical schism in Ukraine.” Speaking in an interview with TV Hram, the media outlet of the Serbian Orthodox Church, a.k.a. the No. 2 outlet of the Russian Church, Metropolitan Antony reiterated the close ties between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches, emphasizing their “absolute unanimity and full mutual understanding in all matters concerning inter-Orthodox relations.”
Drawing a parallel between Ukraine and Kosovo, Metropolitan Antony said that both nations face similar challenges. “For the Serbian people, Kosovo is the cradle of their Orthodoxy. Similarly, for us, Kyiv is where we received our faith.” He expressed indignation over the recent ban on Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia from entering Kosovo, adding that Patriarch Kirill of Moscow was deeply saddened by the incident and had sent a letter of support to Patriarch Porfirije.
The Metropolitan spoke of the “difficult situation” faced by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) under Metropolitan Onufriy, claiming it is undergoing persecution that is being overlooked by the global community. “We appeal to the international community to take notice of what is happening in Ukraine. However, we often receive no support, answers, or understanding,” he lamented.
He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of the Serbian Church, stating, “The Russian people are thankful for the Serbian Church’s courage in standing by our brothers who are under persecution.”
Metropolitan Antony strongly criticized Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, accusing him of causing division within the Orthodox world. He claimed that the recognition of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) was “contrary to the canons and Orthodox ecclesiology.” He specifically denounced the ordination of Metropolitan Epifaniy of Ukraine, stating, “We are now asked to believe that the Ecumenical Patriarch, from his office in Constantinople, can make a layman into a ‘bishop’ with a single signature, even if that individual has never undergone canonical ordination.”
He reiterated that the Russian Orthodox Church would never accept the Tomos of Autocephaly granted to the OCU, emphasizing his personal and collective commitment to upholding canonical tradition. “When we were ordained, we all swore to live by the canons of the Church,” he said.Solidarity with Serbia
Metropolitan Antony underscored the solidarity of the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian people with Serbia, particularly concerning the Kosovo issue. “Kosovo, which is an integral part of Serbia, will take its rightful place. We, the Russian people, are with you. We pray for you and support you as much as we can. The Russian state is also making great efforts to advocate for Serbia on the international stage,” he stated.
In closing, Metropolitan Antony thanked the Serbian Orthodox Church and Patriarch Porfirije for their steadfast support. He called on all Orthodox believers to remain united in faith and love for the Church, urging them to stand firm in the face of challenges.
Source: Πατριαρχείο Σερβίας
