Metropolis of Montenegro rejects claims of separatism and financial opacity

The Metropolis of Montenegro and the Littoral of the Serbian Orthodox Church has rejected allegations of separatism and non-transparent financial practices, stressing that it respects Montenegro’s laws and remains committed to the unity of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

In a statement to Montenegro’s public broadcaster RTCG, the Metropolis also described recent accusations against Archpriest Gojko Perović and other clergy as “completely unfounded and malicious.”

The Metropolis said its fundamental mission is the “evangelical enlightenment of the people and the restoration of fraternal harmony,” arguing that the nature, structure and historical role of the Church in Montenegro are frequently misunderstood.

Regarding its finances, the Metropolis maintained that it operates in accordance with the country’s legal framework and rejected allegations that its activities cause any harm to the state or its citizens.

It also dismissed accusations of separatism, emphasizing its commitment to the unity of the Serbian Orthodox Church and describing the preservation of the tradition of the “Throne of Peć” as an important element of its ecclesiastical identity.

“This is the spirit in…