Head of Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo Fired

Archbishop Artemije

2010-02-13

The Serbian Orthodox Church has removed the hardline spiritual leader of Kosovo Serbs on suspicion that he embezzled church and state funds.

The Holy Synod, the church’s top body, ruled Saturday that Archbishop Artemije can no longer lead the church in Kosovo, considered the heartland of the church. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008.

Artemije, known for his ultranationalist and anti-Western stands, was investigated by the church for allegedly mishandling millions of euros (dollars) in aid and government funds over several years.

Several hundred of his supporters, including some priests from Kosovo, gathered in front of the church headquarters in Belgrade during the Holy Synod meeting.

Source: