The recent headlines about Esfigmenou Monastery on Mount Athos should not be dismissed lightly. This place, steeped in deep historical and religious significance, has become the focal point of escalating tensions involving police forces and militant monk’s threats of violence. These are not just sensational stories; they are manifestations of a longstanding conflict that demands our immediate and urgent attention and resolution. Mount Athos, often called “Panagia’s Garden,” is a sanctuary of peace and spiritual reflection. However, the schismatic actions of charlatan monks at Esfigmenou Monastery under the defrocked Methodios have disrupted this tranquility. To understand the gravity of the situation, we must revisit its roots. For over fifty years, the schismatic monks of Esfigmenou have refused to acknowledge the Ecumenical Patriarch as the spiritual leader of the monastic state—a tradition upheld by all other monasteries, sketes, and communities on Athos for over a millennium. Discord began in Athos when Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras met with Pope Paul VI, lifting the centuries-old anathemas. The schismatic monks, who were already in schism over correcting the calendar, viewed this as a betrayal of Orthodoxy. They have since isolated themselves, refusing to commemorate the Ecumenical Patriarchs—Athenagoras, Demetrius, and Bartholomew. Their uncanonical and unlawful actions have led to their expulsion from the Holy Community of Athos, severing their ties with the established monastic order. In 2002, the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Holy Synod of Mount Athos, with the support of the Greek State, established a new brotherhood for Esfigmenou Monastery, recognizing it under the leadership of Archimandrite Chrysostomos of blessed memory. The Holy Community of Mount Athos, the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and the Greek State fully acknowledge this new brotherhood under Archimandrite Bartholomew. However, the schismatic monks continue to occupy the monastery, refusing to leave, despite the injustice and the need for resolution. The actions of the schismatic monks are not merely religious dissent; they are a direct challenge to the lawful and canonical order. They have gone as far as condemning revered Orthodox saints such as Paisios, Iakovos, and Porphyrios as heretics. They not only threaten violence, but they also use violent means, including Molotov cocktails and other military ordinances weapons, to maintain their unlawful occupation. The legitimate monks have been hospitalized due to these attacks, further highlighting the severity of the situation. The Greek State is responsible for upholding the laws governing Mount Athos. Article 105 of the Greek Constitution clearly states that Mount Athos is a self-governing part of Greek territory, governed according to its Charter and relevant Greek laws. The Ecumenical Patriarch is the canonical competent territorial bishop, and the unity of the Orthodox Church is manifested through liturgical practices that include commemorating the Patriarch during services. The refusal of the schismatic monks to adhere to these practices undermines the very foundation of Mount Athos.
Dozens of court decisions have consistently ruled against the schismatic monks and lawfully favored the canonical brotherhood recognized by all legitimate entities. However, successive governments have hesitated to enforce these decisions, fearing political repercussions. This hesitation must end. The Greek State must act decisively to restore order and uphold the rule of law on Mount Athos. The presence of these schismatic monks poses a potential threat not only to Mount Athos's peace but also to its international reputation. Concerns about their connections with foreign entities, particularly Russian influences, warrant thorough investigation. A resolution must be found that respects Mount Athos's traditions and laws while ensuring the safety and well-being of all its inhabitants. The Hellenic State must not shy away from its responsibility to protect this sacred place and uphold the authority of the Ecumenical Patriarch. Let us hope for a peaceful resolution that reaffirms the canonical order and the unity of the Orthodox Church. The time for decisive action is now, and the Hellenic State must lead the way in defending the rights of the Ecumenical Patriarch on Mount Athos. GLORY to God for All Things!Messages of support from the Ecumenical Patriarch and beyond
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Ηλίας Δαμιανάκης Άρχων Μαΐστωρ της Μεγάλης του Χριστού Εκκλησίας AuthorBy the Grace of God Archon Elias Damianakis has ministered in the study of Holy Iconography since 1980. In his biography you can read about Elias' life and on his portfolio page you can see where he has rendered some of his hand painted iconography or visit the photo galleries to see some of his work. There is a complete list of featured articles, awards and testimonials which you can visit, as well as a list of notable achievements here below. Please contact Elias for more information or suggestions for this website, thank you and God Bless. |