Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus: Christianity Faces New Forms of Persecution in the Modern World

Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus issued a serious statement in which he analyzed the state of Christianity in modern society, highlighting the increase in both covert and overt forms of pressure on believers, both internationally and in Greece. According to the website ΒΗΜΑ ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΙΑΣ, the hierarch expressed concern that Christian witness is increasingly perceived as an obstacle to ultra-liberal social concepts that prioritize the absolute autonomy of the individual.

In his article, Metropolitan Seraphim notes the paradox of the modern era: despite the professed protection of human rights, Christianity remains one of the most persecuted religions in the world. In addition to physical persecution under authoritarian regimes, he points to alarming trends in Western democracies—the United Kingdom, Canada, and European countries—where legislative initiatives and court rulings are increasingly restricting the public practice of faith.

“The Church views attempts to marginalize the Christian position as a departure from the principles of true freedom,” the metropolitan emphasizes. The text devotes particular attention to the situation in Greece, where the hierarch documents instances of blasphemous treatment of Orthodox symbols in “creative circles” and attempts to drive religion out of the public sphere, which, in his view, indicates a selective approach to religious tolerance.

Concluding his message, the metropolitan calls on the faithful to remain spiritually vigilant and steadfast. He reminds them that throughout its history, the Church has repeatedly faced trials, and urges Christians to follow the Gospel’s call not to fear difficulties, relying on faith and patience.