Reconciliation Attempt Fails as Estonian Orthodox Churches Remain at Odds

 

 

Metropolitan Eugene of Tallinn and All Estonia

rus.err.ee and OCP News Service – 28/08/2024

Tallinn- Estonia: Tensions between the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church under the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (EOC MP) have intensified following the EOC MP’s decision to change its name to simply “Estonian Orthodox Church.”

Metropolitan Stefan of Tallinn and All Estonia, the leader of the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church, issued a statement on August 26th firmly rejecting the EOC MP’s name change. He reiterated the historical and canonical foundation for the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church’s claim to the name, referencing the Tomos of Autonomy granted by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1923.

Historical Context:

Metropolitan Stefan outlined the historical context of the dispute. He pointed out that the Moscow Patriarchate had no jurisdiction over Estonia when it was granted autocephaly in 1590. Subsequent attempts by the Tsars and the Soviet-era Patriarchs to extend their control over Estonia were also rejected by the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Offer of Reconciliation:

The Metropolitan revealed that he had proposed a solution to the current situation by suggesting the creation of a Russian vicariate within the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church, acknowledging the presence of Orthodox believers loyal to the Moscow Patriarchate in Estonia. However, this offer remains unanswered by the EOC MP.

EOC MP’s Move Towards Autonomy:

The EOC MP’s decision to change its name and amend its statutes signifies a move towards increased autonomy from Moscow. This move, however, directly contradicts the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church’s historical claim and has sparked further conflict.

Uncertain Future:

The outcome of this dispute remains unclear. While the EOC MP seeks independence, the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church argues for the recognition of its historical and canonical rights. It is likely that this issue will require further dialogue and potentially intervention from the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Estonian Orthodox Church Charts Path to Independence

Source: rus.err.ee

OCP News Service