Important News

Recognition of Kosovo may create more problems than it solves

Almost three months ago the Australian people elected a new government with a mandate to provide "new leadership". In foreign affairs, it was clear that this mandate meant Australia would exercise an independent policy and no longer be part of any "coalition of the willing".The Rudd Government's recognition of Kosovo ("US and European nations quickly recognise Kosovo", February 20) betrays the trust placed in it by the Australian people. Just as the war in Iraq has led to massive instability and exacerbated the growth of terrorism, the precipitate recognition of Kosovo will lead to similar consequences in the Balkans and elsewhere.

The Letter to The Honourable Kevin Rudd MP, Prime Minister of Australia

Honourable Prime Minister:

We write to you on behalf of the Serbian Orthodox Church and the substantial, patriotic Serbian community in Australia to urge you and the Australian government, in the strongest possible terms, to reverse its decision of 19 February 2008 to extend diplomatic recognition of Kosovo’s unilateral secession from the Republic of Serbia.

Visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople

In accordance with the Holy Synod of Bishops' decision and in the name of the the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church, the Archbishop of Cetinje and Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Coastlands Amfilohije, the Archbishop of Ohrid and Metropolitan of Skoplje Jovan, as well as the Archbishop of Backa Irinej, visited the Ecumenical Patriachate of Constantinople and His All Holiness Archbishop of Constantinople and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on February 5 and 6.

At the occasion, the delegation of the Serbian Orthodox Church officially consigned a Томos of the of the Holy Assembly of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church on granting autonomy to the Orthodox Achdiocese of Ohrid.

Besides the talks held with Patriarch Bartholomew, during this visit the representatives of the Serbian Orthodox Church also had the occasion to meet members of the Holy Synod of the Patriarchate of Constantinople, which is presently convening for its regular session.

Patriarch Bartholomew sent his prayers and best wishes to His Holiness Patriarch Pavle and bestowed his patriarchal blessing to the entire local Serbian Orthodox Church.

Information Service of the Serbian Orthodox Church

Bulletin Issued by the Permanent Medical Council of the Military Medical Academy (VMA) on the Health Condition of Serbian Patria

The bulletin issued on the 6th of February by the permanent medical council of the Military Medical Academy (VMA), Belgrade, contains the following statement on the health condition of His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Pavle:

«The health condition of His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Pavle remains stable, with normal vital function parameters. The treatment plan continues, alongside consultations with the medical staff's council members.»

Information Service of the Serbian Orthodox Church

Vatican issues cautious statement after visit by Kosovo leader

Vatican, Feb. 4, 2008 (CWNews.com) - After Pope Benedict XVI (bio - news) met on February 2 with Fatmir Sejdiu, the president of Kosovo, the Vatican press office issued a statement emphasizing that the Holy See was not changing its policy regarding the possible independence of the Serbian province.

The Vatican "will follow developments on the ground with particular attention," the official statement indicated. The communiqué went on to say that the Holy See looked for a peaceful resolution of conflicts there, respectful of the rights of all parties.

New Archbishop of Athens to Be Elected on the 7th of February

The Holy Synod of the Church of Greece will convene at the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral Church on February 7 to elect a successor to Archishop Christodoulos of blessed memory.

On an extraordinary meeting held on Monday, following the passing away of Archbishop Christodoulos, the date for electing a new Archishop was set for Thursday, February 7. Furhtermore, during that meeting it was decided when the funeral service would be held.

Source: www.ecclesia.gr