In a recent encyclical published on February 9, 2024, the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Church of Crete has announced stringent conditions for the celebration of the sacrament of baptism.
According to the encyclical, baptisms will now require prior “approval” from the Archdiocese of Crete or the relevant Metropolis.
The encyclical outlines specific requirements for parents seeking baptism for their children. They must provide “required” supporting documents, including a “solemn declaration” affirming that the contractor performing the baptism is an Orthodox Christian. Additionally, if one or both parents are married, they must have undergone a religious marriage ceremony. The encyclical stipulates that the solemn declaration must be certified for the authenticity of the signature.
Notably, the encyclical expressly prohibits the baptism of children born to parents who have only undergone a civil marriage ceremony, without a religious one.
These new measures reflect the Church of Crete’s commitment to upholding Orthodox Christian traditions and values in the sacrament of baptism.
Source: cretalive.com / Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
