Metropolitan Seraphim of Kastoria opposed to the govt’s decision to ban the ringing of bells on Holy Week as well as the use of external speakers and loudspeakers in churches.
In an interview with a local radio station, Metropolitan Seraphim stressed that some people were bothered by the Church, Christ and Holy Week. “I do not understand why bells and speakers bother some people. I believe that the ringing of the bells shows to the faithful that the church is praying. It shows that the priests are in the church and are praying for us.”
The Metropolitan of Kastoria issued an encyclical a few days ago in which he underlined, “Some people were disturbed because I wrote that it was a sign of decay to challenge Holly Communion. I wonder whether some people know that we will all leave this world behind sooner or later.”
He was also asked how the faithful would be able to get the Holy Fire brought from Jerusalem. He responded, “I cannot urge anyone to do anything. What applies to everyone applies to me. However, if they gave us a blessing, we could do many things.”
Finally, the Metropolitan of Kastoria pointed out that, although he disagreed on several points, he would respect the encyclical issued by the Holy Synod, which, “aims at protecting the health of the people.”