New York, March 24, 2023
Abp. Elpidophoros (left) instructed Bp. Apostolos (right) to conduct a study to present the results to Pat. Bartholomew. Photo: Romfea
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is preparing a report on the activity of the Russian Orthodox Church in New Jersey to be presented to Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, reports the Greek outlet Romfea, with reference to its own sources.
According to the report, Bishop Apostolos of Medeia sent an email to the clergy of the Metropolis of New Jersey asking for information on the activity of Moscow Patriarchal and Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia parishes, and also parishes of the Orthodox Church in America within the boundaries of the Metropolis of New Jersey.
The bishop writes in his email: “Archbishop Elpidophoros of America forwarded me a letter from the Chief Secretary of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, with which he requests that we present to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew a report on the presence and work of the Moscow Patriarchate within the Holy Metropolis of New Jersey.”
In particular, the bishop asks for a list of Moscow and ROCOR parishes, and whether these parishes have any interaction with the GOARCH clergy or parishioners.
“In addition, my personal request is that you also provide me with a report on the OCA parishes in your area,” Bp. Medeia adds.
A report will be compiled from the information gathered to be presented to Pat. Bartholomew as soon as possible.
According to their official websites, the Moscow Patriarchate has 6 parishes directly under it in New Jersey, ROCOR has 14, and the OCA has 25.
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