In an exclusive interview with the theological portal Bogoslov.RU during his recent visit to Russia, His Holiness Patriarch Porfirije of the Serbian Orthodox Church emphasized that the Church’s primary mission is spiritual, not geopolitical. His remarks come in light of the Serbian Church’s decision to recognize the autocephaly of the Orthodox Church in North Macedonia.

Patriarch Porfirije addressed growing debates surrounding the move, stating that the decision stemmed from a pastoral concern for the salvation of believers rather than a desire for territorial influence. “What mattered to us in this specific case was the Church and its ethos, not worldly interests,” he said, underscoring that the decision was made unanimously by all bishops after deep prayer and reflection.

Acknowledging some criticism from within the Serbian clergy and laity, the Patriarch offered historical context, noting that the dioceses within present-day North Macedonia have not always belonged to the Serbian Church. “The essential question is not about borders, but about the salvation of every human being,” he affirmed.

Porfirije further shared his vision for the Orthodox Church amid current global challenges, viewing crises not as calamities but as opportunities for unity and spiritual renewal. “I believe that the crisis the Orthodox Church is experiencing today will ultimately lead to a triumph of unity, love, and mutual understanding,” he said.

He warned against allowing human logic, driven by interest and calculation, to override the sacrificial and loving logic of the Gospel. “When human logic dominates over Christ’s logic, we find ourselves at a dead end,” he noted.

Ending on a spiritual and hopeful note, the Patriarch called on all Orthodox Christians to embrace reconciliation and inner transformation. Quoting the Paschal hymn, he urged: “Let us say to one another, ‘Christ is Risen!’—and embrace each other. May these words not be just a chant, but our very way of life.”