Patriarch of Antioch Ignatius Aphrem II
Speaking to reporters at Devalokam aramana, media wing head Yuhanon Mar Diascoros Metropolitan said statements on unity made before a microphone alone would not resolve the church dispute. He said the law of the land and the church’s constitution must be followed, and that the issue should be settled through legal procedures. He said the patriarch would be welcome if he chose to visit Devalokam, Orthodox Church headquarters.
He maintained that the Manarcaud church belongs to the Malankara church. Kottayam : Malankara Orthodox Church on Thursday welcomed Patriarch of Antioch Ignatius Aphrem II’s call for church unity but said it must be backed by practical steps and should not remain in words.
Asked about political positions, he said BJP was the only party to have clearly stated its stand on the issue, describing Orthodox Church as a national church that should function according to its constitution. No other party had taken such a position, he said. He said the church had no demand for an Orthodox representative in the ministry and sought only the rights it was legally entitled to. On the cabinet reshuffle, he said it was govt’s decision and the church would not be obstinate. He said it was too early to assess govt’s performance, adding that some good work was under way but difficulties persisted in certain areas.
Referring to the chief minister’s earlier assurance that the dispute would be resolved, the metropolitan said no significant steps had followed. Those who assume office by taking oath on the Constitution are expected to uphold the country’s laws, he said.