We proclaim in every direction that Constantinople is the genuine, the only Mother Church. . .
If anyone still wonders whether or not Patriarch Bartholomew is a wolf in sheep's clothing, the answer becomes clearer when reviewing these appalling words that he spoke just a few short months ago.
Considered in the context of his overall speech, his words become more, not less, ridiculous and offensive:
Hence, from Asia Minor, we proclaim in every direction that the genuine and only Mother Church is the Great Church of Constantinople. It exclusively bears the legacy of Jesus’s sacrifice on the Cross for all humanity, giving birth to numerous Churches from Bulgaria to Ukraine. This declaration isn’t a modern invention in ecclesiology but an experiential truth and legacy inherited from the Fathers of the Ecumenical and Local Synods.
It is not just a theoretical assertion but a continuous, blessed act of the Church that bestows upon Constantinople the privilege of the Crucifixion’s sacrifice, the path of sacrifice, and the position as the Head of all Churches. It consistently bears the crown of thorns symbolizing the Despotic Passion.
As the humble successors, by the grace of God, to these traditions, we vow to safeguard this sacred trust. We refuse to relinquish the sacred duty and responsibility entrusted to us.
We do not relinquish the mantle of the Mother of the Great Church, a role passed down to us in blood, and we are committed to passing it on unscathed and unaltered. For 32 years, and into the future, we embrace this task joyously, in service to the Most Holy Theotokos.
We do not step down from the Cross to which the Church of Constantinople has devoted itself. We remain dedicated to our calling, honoring our history and the wisdom of the Fathers.
We’ve learned how to lead all peoples, races, and languages to the Resurrection through the Cross. We are willing to endure crucifixion and unite with Christ until the end of time, for the world’s sake. Thus, we stand firm, all of us, in reverent awe before the judgment seat of God!”. . .
Never mind the fact that the majority of Orthodox Christians in the world are Russian Orthodox — and thus the majority of Orthodox Christians are not in communion with Patriarch Bartholomew.
Never mind the fact that numerous Orthodox Christians from multiple jurisdictions (Serbia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Macedonia, Antioch, etc.) reject Bartholomew's claim to universal jurisdiction.
If Orthodox Christians don't criticize this sort of pompous speech, then what basis to we have to criticize the Pope of Rome? Indeed, it seems that Bartholomew considers himself to be some sort of Orthodox Pope.
Sorry, Bartholomew. Constantinople is not the head of the Orthodox world, and you are not the leader of all Orthodox Christians. Faithful followers of Christ reject your claims.
Stay away from Patriarch Bartholomew. Stay away from the churches under his jurisdiction. And unless he finally repents, never forget the words he has spoken and the ridiculous claims he has made.