Proceedings continue in the Avvakoum monastery case

On September 23, 2026, the ongoing legal proceedings concerning the Saint Avvakoum Monastery continued with the testimony of a prosecution witness, identified as Father V. During cross-examination by Eustathios Efstathiou, counsel for the second defendant, the witness maintained his allegations of oppression and unequal treatment within the monastery. He specifically accused the first defendant, Father Nektarios, of being oppressive since his arrival, and claimed the second defendant, Father Porphyrios, frequently used insulting language toward him.

The defense team contested these claims, presenting photographic and video evidence while suggesting that the witness’s complaints were fabricated after his departure from the monastery under outside influence. Furthermore, the defense challenged the witness regarding his participation in the election of Father Nektarios as abbot, arguing that his past support contradicted his current testimony. The witness replied that prior to the election, internal maneuvering had been orchestrated by Father Nektarios to influence the outcome. Legal proceedings are ongoing as both sides submit additional documentation to clarify the events.