Statement of Affirmation

The following  criteria have been established for Member Hierarchs and jurisdictions
belonging to the Greek Orthodox Church of Epirus:

1) No consideration is given to any hierarch incapable of proving proof of a direct true Orthodox lineage of valid Apostolic Succession. Under certain circumstances provisions may be required to correct reasonable doubts or canonical defects.

2) Men who are hierarchs in name only (“one man show”) or “jurisdictions” that exist solely online, i.e. that do not have any kind of an active, on-going apostolate or ministry, cannot be  considered. Such hierarchs may still be admitted, provided all other canonical requirements are met, but may be assigned to serve in an existing diocese or as a retired clergy, if so qualified.

3) Hierarchs known to have engaged in less than honorable secular or religious activities, as prohibited by Canon Law (cf. Grammata on Clergy Conduct),  do not qualify. This does not rule out the operation of true repentance and forgiveness, however.

4) Hierarchs known to be active homosexuals or practicing alcoholics or who are known to operate under conditions unacceptable to Orthodoxy moral law are eliminated from eligibility.

5) Absolute adherence to the dogmatic definitions of the Holy Fathers of the Seven Ecumenical Councils (325 AD - 787 AD), Sacred Tradition and the Holy Canons is demanded.

6) Member Hierarchs and jurisdictions promise to remain faithful to the written and Sacred Tradition that have been taught (2 Thess. 2:15). These include a life of exemplary clergy professionalism and personal spiritual practice.