A summit of Orthodox leaders from around the world took place a few days ago at the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The decision was unanimous that Patriarch Irenaeus was to step down as Patriarch of Jerusalem. However, Irenaeus continues to try to serve as acting Patriarch even though the Jordanian government has expired his passport and he has been sanctioned by all autocephalous branches of world Orthodoxy. He officiated in a holy liturgy recently which spawned a whole new outcry for his removal. His actions have been described by hierarchs as “anti-canonical, anti-ecclesiastical and schismatic.” Irenaeus still claims that he did nothing wrong and he simply refuses to leave office. A synod has been called to deal with those who are supporting the deposed Patriarch. This issue continues to be a source of controversy that has now touched Orthodoxy across the globe and continues to be another factor of instability in a volatile region. This story has been more interesting than anything Hollywood could produce. You can continue to find updates here as the saga continues on.