Bishops of the Church of Greece have highlighted the crisis caused by a shortage of clergy in rural areas of Greece

The Greek Orthodox Church is facing a serious shortage of clergy, which is leading to the gradual “desertion” of parishes in rural areas, mountainous regions, and on the islands. Metropolitans Jerome of Kalavryta and George of Karpenisi have expressed deep concern that many churches, which for decades served as centers of community life, are now left without permanent priests. This was reported by the website Vima Orthodoxias.

The situation in the dioceses is critical: priests are forced to travel enormous distances to serve several villages at once. Metropolitan Jerome notes that in the province of Kalavryta, 30 priests are forced to serve 82 churches. A similar problem is observed in Evritania, where, according to Metropolitan George, due to depopulation and harsh winter conditions, many parishes exist only in name, and young people are increasingly less likely to choose the path of the priesthood.

Experts point out that, in addition to the demographic decline, new educational requirements that have come into effect under the law (Law 4823/2021) are also posing an obstacle. Starting in 2027, a degree from a university or a specialized school will be required for appointment to a paid position as a priest, which, according to Father Thomas Andreou, could exacerbate the shortage of clergy in remote regions. Under these circumstances, Archbishop Jerome emphasizes the need to strengthen support for theological educational institutions and for pastors to set a personal example in order to attract young people to church ministry.