Greece Bolsters Key Orthodox Patriarchates Against Russian Influence

Athens – In a significant move with both religious and geopolitical implications, Greece has announced the creation of 600 salaried positions for clergy serving within key Orthodox Patriarchates.

This initiative aims to bolster the Ecumenical Patriarchate (Constantinople), the Patriarchate of Alexandria, the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, and the Monastery of Sinai, all of which have faced mounting financial pressures and increasing influence from the Russian Orthodox Church.

These ancient patriarchates, vital centers of Orthodox Christianity, have struggled to support their clergy, many of whom have served for decades without salaries, healthcare, or pensions. This financial vulnerability has made them susceptible to overtures from Moscow, which has been actively expanding its religious and political influence, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

The Greek government’s decision comes in the wake of escalating tensions within the Orthodox world following the 2019 granting of autocephaly (independence) to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine by the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Russia, which views itself as the protector of Orthodoxy and adheres to the “Third Rome” ideology, strongly opposed this move and has since intensified its efforts to undermine the Ecumenical Patriarchate and its allies.

The Patriarchate of Alexandria, which recognized Ukrainian autocephaly, has become a primary target of Russian pressure. Moscow has established a rival exarchate in Cairo and has been actively recruiting clergy from the Alexandria Patriarchate, offering significantly higher salaries and diplomatic passports, particularly in Africa. Russia has also engaged in strategic partnerships with other churches in the region, further complicating the religious landscape.

“Without this historic support for the ancient patriarchates, it had become clear they would face a severe existential crisis,” a Greek government source stated. This initiative marks a significant policy shift for Greece, which previously neglected the plight of these institutions. Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens has been a key advocate for this cause, working for years to secure support for the struggling patriarchates. A recent meeting between Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Greek government ministers underscored the urgency of the situation, ultimately leading to the creation of these 600 positions.

While the Patriarchate of Antioch (Damascus) is also expected to benefit from this initiative, the plan requires final legislative approval and implementation. This move represents a significant investment by Greece, not only in the preservation of Orthodox Christianity but also in its own strategic interests, as it seeks to counter Russian influence and strengthen its role in a complex geopolitical arena.