Clouds are Thickening over Bartholomew’s Patriarchal Tenure

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By Alexandros Remoundos

Clouds are thickening over Bartholomew’s Patriarchal tenure, which appears to be approaching its natural conclusion despite the Greek state’s efforts to prolong it through “artificial” support. This conclusion is drawn from diaspora publications and others that have been increasing in number recently.

These publications—sometimes indirectly, but often explicitly—stress that if the Ecumenical Patriarchate is to survive beyond the current patriarch, it requires a “change of course.” To that end, they emphasize the need for a well-intentioned yet unbiased evaluation of the past 35 years of the patriarchate, in order to identify both its positive aspects and its negative consequences for the life of the Orthodox Church. Only by drawing objective conclusions, the press notes, will it be possible to chart a new course that allows the Patriarchate to rise to the occasion and respond to the diverse religious and international challenges of the new era.

Overview of Criticism

Among the various assessments expressed in the media regarding the current leadership of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, some are already familiar, while others—more severe—are being voiced for the first time, raising new questions.

Until now, criticism has mainly focused on journalistic descriptions of the “satrap-like” style that allegedly characterizes the decisions and actions of the leadership in the Phanar.

Topics covered by print and online journalism include:

• The diminished role of the patriarchal synod
• The election and frequent dismissal of bishops
• Conflicts with other Orthodox patriarchates and autocephalous Churches
• The frequency of patriarchal travels
• Ongoing issues in the Archdiocese of America
• Relations with Turkish authorities
• The failure of the recent visit to the White House

Key Areas of Criticism

a) Downgrading of the Synod
The press repeatedly highlights the sharp decline in the role of the synod over the past 30 years. Collective deliberation and internal dialogue have largely disappeared. While decisions formally bear the synod’s seal, they are effectively dictated by the patriarch and adopted without discussion. The synod now functions mainly as a formality.

This is linked to how the synod is composed: members are selected directly by the patriarch rather than through an established system, making the process highly personalized. Bishops who disagree are often dismissed immediately.

b) Authoritarianism in Appointments and Dismissals
The patriarch is frequently criticized for imposing personal preferences in episcopal appointments and for dismissing or forcing the resignation of numerous hierarchs without proper procedures.

The press also recalls the major conflict with former Archbishop Iakovos of America, which escalated into a public dispute on Greek television and generated negative commentary.

c) Conflicts with Other Orthodox Churches
The media points to confrontational handling of pan-Orthodox issues, including tensions with the Church of Greece and the Church of Russia.

The handling of Ukrainian autocephaly is described as rushed and lacking foresight, contributing to a major schism and unprecedented division within global Orthodoxy. The Orthodox Church is described as fragmented, with unity appearing increasingly illusory.

Some Churches—Slavic, Arabic, and even Greek-speaking (e.g., Jerusalem)—are said to be distancing themselves from the Ecumenical Patriarchate and aligning more with Moscow, leading to its visible isolation.

d) Excessive Public Relations Activity
Frequent travel by the patriarch is said to diminish the prestige of the office. Constant appearances make his presence routine rather than significant, reducing the institution’s symbolic weight. Public attendance at events has reportedly declined.

e) Ongoing Turmoil in the Archdiocese of America
The press largely agrees that persistent problems in the Archdiocese of America stem from the patriarch’s ongoing direct interventions.

Criticisms include:

• The fragmentation of the archdiocese into smaller dioceses
• Frequent leadership changes
• The creation of a parallel authority structure (“second archbishop”)
• Allegations of financial motives and strategic control

Membership has reportedly dropped significantly over the past 30 years.

f) Relations with Turkey and International Issues
Criticism includes:

• The patriarch’s blessing of Turkish military operations in Syria (2018)
• Silence on the conversion of Hagia Sophia and the Chora Monastery into mosques
• Lack of progress on reopening the Halki Theological School
• Silence on international conflicts such as U.S.–Iran tensions

g) Failed White House Visit
The visit is described as a major failure due to poor organization. Responsibility was allegedly given to an inappropriate figure with strained relations in Washington. Diplomatic missteps during the meeting with President Trump are also mentioned.

h) Financial Management Concerns
A newer and more sensitive issue is the lack of transparency in financial management. Reports point to empty coffers and the absence of financial accountability despite decades of significant funding. The issue is described as becoming “explosive.”

Media Environment and Political Context

For decades, Greek media largely avoided criticizing the patriarch for national reasons. The state news agency reportedly filters out critical content. Only marginal outlets and diaspora media previously voiced criticism.

Today, independent journalism—especially in the Greek-American community—is increasingly publishing investigative reports, particularly on financial matters.

At the same time, potential successors are becoming more active, forming factions within the Church. Several metropolitan bishops are mentioned as possible candidates, along with Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.

Conclusion

Observers note that pressures are mounting on the declining patriarchate of Mr. Bartholomew. He now faces:

1. Serious new criticism on sensitive financial issues
2. Subtle but clear challenges from ambitious successors

The question raised is whether his image as tireless and resilient will be enough to counter the effects of age and mounting criticism.

Some commentators cautiously suggest that only his unconventional methods may once again help dispel the dark clouds gathering over his patriarchate.