Czech Ecumenical Council suspends Orthodox Church’s membership for a year

The Ecumenical Council of Churches in the Czech Republic has suspended the membership of the Orthodox Church in the Czech Lands for one year, citing a serious breakdown of trust and cooperation, the council said in a press release. It pointed to possible Russian influence, possible misuse of church structures for pro-Russian propaganda, and non-transparent financial management. The Orthodox Church has repeatedly rejected accusations that it is pro-Russian or that it supports Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

The Ministry of Culture informed the council that the church has repeatedly failed to meet its financial obligations to the state and to its employees.

The Ecumenical Council is an association of churches and religious communities aimed at fostering cooperation among different Christian denominations.