How the tensions between the government and the church were resolved
A few days ago, Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the Holy Metropolis of Thessaloniki for the first time to meet the new Metropolitan of Thessaloniki, Philotheos. Metropolitan Philotheos, and Archbishop Hieronymos. Their conversation was informative and extremely friendly, focusing on cooperation between the State and the Church, especially in social welfare. Mitsotakis stressed the invaluable role of the church in this sector and reassured that any constitutional amendments would not affect the Church’s position. The topic of civil marriage equality was not discussed.
Relations between the government and the church had been strained, particularly over the issue of same-sex marriage. The Archbishop had to balance the Church’s positions without disrupting its relations with the State. Mitsotakis, taking a political risk, decided to regulate the issue for its symbolic value in social rights.
Before the year ended, the Archbishop believed the marriage issue would be discussed after the European elections in June. However, based on opinion polls and advisor analyses, Mitsotakis opted for immediate legislation to close the issue without affecting election results. In a secret meeting with the Archbishop after the holidays, they discussed their differing views extensively but without conflict.
Mitsotakis worked to gain support within his party and persuaded MPs, while the Archbishop demanded unanimity from the Hierarchy and avoided public demonstrations. Despite the temporary crisis, both sides took steps to mend their relationship. Ministers and MPs discreetly celebrated the bill’s passing, and the Archbishop distanced himself from the events.
Eventually, the tensions eased, and the Archbishop refrained from hosting political figures for some time, focusing on maintaining a measured response to the developments.
The Party at “By The Glass” and Its Aftermath
After the same-sex marriage bill passed, ministers and MPs celebrated at the wine bar “By The Glass,” a gesture President Katerina Sakellaropoulou attended, which the Archbishop disapproved of as it divided public opinion. This led the Archbishop to avoid political figures and events for some time.
Easing Tensions
With Easter approaching, concerns arose about government officials attending church services. The situation was exacerbated when an ND MP was slapped by a former parliamentary candidate over her vote on the bill. Key figures, including Giorgos Kalantzis and Haris Konidaris, helped to restore relations through a joint visit to church structures in Delesi. This visit, symbolically significant, marked a thawing of relations, culminating in Prime Minister Mitsotakis attending a Maundy Thursday service.
Freddy Beleris’ Candidacy
A gesture indicating further eased tensions was the Archbishop receiving Freddy Beleris’ son after his candidacy announcement, showing political goodwill. As a result, the relationship between the State and the Church improved, with Mitsotakis resuming church visits during his tours.
