Xanthi, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Greece, April 9, 2024
Photo: Romfea
A hierarch of the Greek Orthodox Church protested a recent concert from a blasphemous band within his canonical territory, calling for the event to be canceled.
The Metropolis of Xanthi issued a statement regarding the recent Sakis Tolis +613 concert held in the city:
Informing the Christian faithful about actions taken by our respected shepherd, Metropolitan Panteleimonos, regarding the recent musical event featuring Sakis Tolis +613, who is also involved in the band Rotting Christ…
The respected Metropolitan promptly called the owners of the venue to his office and requested the cancelation of the event, as it was considered blasphemy against the faith. He even sent a formal letter regarding this matter. Unfortunately, the event still took place.
The Holy Metropolis expresses its regret and condemns the action.
The men in question, by adopting the group’s views about Christ, distance themselves from the Church.
Sakis Tolis is a Greek musician best known as the vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the black and death metal group Rotting Christ, which has built its reputation by being blasphemous.
In November, a concert by the blasphemous Polish black metal band Batushka scheduled for Belgrade was canceled after an outcry from faithful Orthodox Christians.
The Estonian Orthodox Church protested a concert by the same band in September 2022.
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