The decision of the former Patriarchal Exarch for Orthodox Parishes of the Russian Tradition in Western Europe to be subordinated to the Patriarchate of Moscow does not appear to deliver the outcomes intended.
The complete absence of the faithful during yesterday’s Divine Liturgy performed by Metropolitan John at the Cathedral of Saint Sergius in Paris was an eloquent proof.
Although the church was celebrating yesterday, the absence of faithful was noticeable.
In many parts of Europe, a number of clergy and communities have followed Metropolitan John’s proposal to keep the Exarchate under the Patriarchate of Russia. However, most of the communities have opted to remain under the Ecumenical Patriarchate while some have not yet decided.
