His Eminence the Metropolitan of Messinia, Chrysostomos III, a Professor of Theology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), speaks to the MAGGA show on BNtv about the Church, its role in modern society, current issues, and the succession games being orchestrated by some Hierarchs. The distinguished theology professor and Pastor, answering journalist Angie Stathatou, analyzes in detail the issue of the clergy's salary increase: "There is no behind-the-scenes maneuvering; this is a matter that has been raised since 2003. Bishops had a salary of up to 1,900 euros while Muftis received 4,000 euros. It is absurd to claim that we made a secret deal with the government," he stresses. Mr. Chrysostomos explains in detail how the state's obligation to pay the clergy arose after the concession of 96% of ecclesiastical property to the Greek State, while also referring to bureaucracy problems, encroachment, and the lack of political will that block the utilization of the remaining assets.
Some are forming cliques and setting up games for Ieronymos' succession – The older ones watch them and laugh!
Regarding Church affairs, behind-the-scenes ferment for the succession of Archbishop Ieronymos continues, despite the fact that he is performing his duties normally and has not, at least for the time being, spoken of any intention to resign from the helm of the Church of Greece: "The resignation of Hierarchs is a personal matter for each individual. Some are trying to create cliques; we see them and laugh," emphasizes the Metropolitan of Messinia. "No serious Hierarch will say that they are a candidate, even if provoked to respond."
Christodoulos knew what communication meant, with both positive and negative consequences
"The public platform is necessary for the Church and for informing citizens," emphasizes Mr. Chrysostomos. He also refers to the late Archbishop Christodoulos and the claims by many regarding the Church's long-standing silence: "The late Christodoulos knew what communication meant, but everyone has their own way of leading." What does the Metropolitan of Messinia say about issues concerning society and current events, such as the murder of the policewoman in Drama and the claims by her relatives that her parish priest told her to be patient? What happened and why with the exhibitionist Metropolitan of the Patriarchate of Alexandroupoli who was suspended? Finally, how is the theological dialogue continuing, and what is the ultimate goal?
Watch the entire episode of the MAGGA show on BNtv here:
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