Serbian theologian Blagoje Pantelić has accused the leadership of the Serbian Orthodox Church of attempting to remove individuals who are not politically loyal, following his recent expulsion from the church community due to public statements.
Pantelić stated that his case demonstrates how Patriarch Porfirije allegedly responds to criticism, describing the patriarch’s behavior as “scandalous” and unprecedented in the history of the church.
Allegations of Political Pressure Inside the Church
According to Pantelić, church leadership is prepared to act against members who refuse to align with the ruling political establishment. He warned that, unless circumstances change, the process could expand to include the removal of bishops considered politically unsuitable.
The theologian made these remarks while commenting on the church court’s decision to expel him and fellow theologian Vukašin Milićević from the church community.
Concerns Over Freedom of Expression
Pantelić emphasized that he is unaware of any similar case in which a civilian theologian was expelled from the church solely for expressing criticism toward its leadership. He argued that the decision was legally questionable and unrelated to doctrinal or structural church matters, claiming it was based purely on disagreement with the patriarch’s leadership style.
