EPHC thanks the President of the Estonian Republic for the protection of constitutional rights
The Estonian Orthodox Christian Church expresses sincere gratitude to the President of the Estonian Republic Alarus for his fundamental position regarding the change in the law on churches and parishes, which was returned to Riigikoga without proclamation. According to the president, the adopted law does not comply with the Constitution, since the restriction of the freedom of religion and freedom of associations created by him is not proportional.
The EPHC has always advocated a constructive dialogue between religious organizations and the state, based on mutual respect, legality and democratic principles. Believing in God, we also respect the law and justice, we are aware of the right and the opportunity to defend our constitutional rights, for the protection of which we had to attract lawyers both at the local and international level. Today’s decision of the president has strengthened our confidence that we are on the right track.
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We hope that the Ministry of the Interior will provide us with the opportunity to continue negotiations on the basis of the above principles that will allow the Riigikoga and the whole public to make sure that the canonical connection of the EPHC with its Church mother does not pose a threat to the state, and the statements about this kind of threat by the EPHC are unreasonable. Our church throughout its history in Estonia demonstrated loyalty to the Estonian state and respect for the people, supporting democratic values, of which one of the most important is freedom of religion.
On these bright Easter days, celebrating the Resurrection of Christ, we are especially grateful to our clergy and parishioners for their unshakable faith, patience and trust. We also express sincere gratitude to everyone who dared to openly act in defense of our church, despite the expanded information campaign against it. Moral support and prayers give us strength to defend church truth and constitutional rights.
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