Today (1/17/14) it has been (privately) reported Metropolitan Philip, primate of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of America) directed the Assembly of Canonical Bishop's Secretariat, Bishop Basil (Essey) -- and all the Antiochian bishops -- to resign all Assembly participation. The question of priests and laity is still open.
For proponents of the Chambésy process, and resolution of the fragmented Orthodox ecclesiastical situation in America and North America, this is a major impediment to future activities.
This and the recent letter to the Assembly by ROCOR are two major nails in the coffin of "Orthodox unity" in the US.
No doubt, the latest article on the EP website has nailed the coffin of "Orthodox unity" with the EP declaring himself to be "first". Will the EP be declaring other Patriarchial Powers that mimic Rome's Papacy?
Also do not forget the schism developing between the Czech Republic and Slovakia where the EP is pitted against the MP. Here the Antiochians and the MP support Metropolitan Rostislav, while the EP supports the other candidate who was not even elected. http://www.euphrosynoscafe.com/forum/vi ... 12&t=10679
With these latest moves by the Antiochians and the ROCOR, other jurisdictions like the OCA, the MP, and the Serbs most likely will follow suit. Then only the Greeks, the ACROD, and the Ukrainians will be left in the American Assembly of "Canonical" Bishops.
Lord have mercy. These power struggles do not give the world a very good impression of Orthodox Christians.
See how we love one another. :ohvey:
