Petition to the Holy Synod

Christian Initiative against Nationalism, Neo-fascism, and Neo-Nazism

As Christians, living through the dire circumstances besetting our country and the rough challenges facing our collective existence as social beings, we do not stand aloof before the pernicious rise of nationalism, neo-Nazism and neo-fascism. Christianity is the religion of love and brotherhood among people. The Christian identity should adequately reflect the fundamental priorities of our daily lives and deeds.

In this spirit, we created the internet group Christian Initiative against Nationalism, Neo-fascism, and Neo-nazism (http://www.facebook.com/groups/christianantirafana/), following the initiative of the Christian Democracy movement, which addressed a formal petition to the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece requesting the condemnation of nationalism, neo-Nazism and neo-fascism (dated September 11, 2012).

In view of the current dramatic situation in Greece, we strongly believe that we cannot afford to remain passively indifferent, even as some persistently promote anti-democratic and authoritarian “ideals,” while also straining our Orthodox Christian faith to make it appear as a nationalistic ideology. Every attempt to systematically cultivate and promote fanaticism and intolerance, to deceive by promising happiness at the expense of the “other,” and to distort an otherwise innocent patriotic sentiment, constitutes a categorical act of deceit against both Orthodox believers and plain, well-intended citizens. We also consider as dangerous all views that deceptively equate right-wing fascism with any other political standpoint, on the basis of activism or whatever.

We are determined to forcefully resist any vulgar attempt at exploiting our faith. For such efforts have left deep scars in the Church’s body in the past.
Golden Dawn is a neo-Nazi group and, as such, it draws from the resources of a deeply anti-Christian backdrop, which is on opposite ends from anything remotely Christian. The explosive ideology that it sells, mixing together racial-nationalist, neo-Nazi and neo-fascist ideas, is at best a heretic teaching, from the Christian point of view. On top of that, GD is a criminal organization with a political party front. Consequently, its members have no place in diocesan and Church offices, nor can they represent the Church or be allowed to appear as its protectors and assistants. We urge all faithful Orthodox Christians, the members of the Body of Christ, to guard the authenticity of the Gospel’s message. To that end, we shall retreat before none.

As we speak, people get bruised. We are determined to roll up our sleeves and assume action. Furthermore, we shall not be lulled into silence and passivity as a result of becoming accustomed to this situation. The snake’s eggs are to remain in their holes and not spread in our society.

Sincerely,
The Christian Initiative against Nationalism, Neo-fascism, and Neo-Nazism

You can sign the Petition here