In the new version of the amendments, churches and other institutions were given an extension from two to six months to make changes to their statutes to sever any ties with Russia. The Estonian Church has already amended its name and statutes to more fully reflect its legal and administrative independence, but politicians continue their campaign against it.
Multiple clergy members sustained injuries, including the local bishop, while one priest suffered broken ribs from the violence.
More than 100 people were received into the Orthodox Church in Africa in two services on the feast of Pentecost.
Washington’s new law, passed in May, makes it a crime for priests to uphold the confidentiality of Confession, forcing them to choose between violating their religious obligations or facing criminal penalties including up to 364 days in jail, a $5,000 fine, and civil liability.
The statement emphasizes that the Patriarchate regularly organizes domestic violence prevention courses across diocesan centers in Romania and Moldova, while directing priests to provide moral and material support to victims.