In an extraordinary meeting on Monday, the Permanent Holy Synod of the Church of Greece announced its decision to keep the temples open and to operate on the day of Epiphany celebration (consecration of waters), openly defying the latest state orders for strict lockdown measures.

The Synod decided to not comply with the most recent regulations, which included the provision that Churches remain closed on Epiphany, in accordance with what had been agreed before the holidays and had been included in a Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD).

Thus, the Church leadership insists that despite the new government measures the temples will operate with 50 people the Bishops present, and with the restrictions that were initially announced.

The Synod decided to send a letter of protest to the Greek government saying that only through dialogue can lead to a resolution of disputes between the Church and the state.