Why the Patriarch (Pope) of Alexandria Bears the Title "Judge of the Universe"
Orthodox Church in Ghana
In the Orthodox Vineyard of Africa
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While in Constantinople, Patriarch Theophilos intervened in a dispute between Emperor Basil II the Bulgar-Slayer (975-1025) and Ecumenical Patriarch Sergios II of Constantinople (999-1019). The dispute was as follows: Sergios II became patriarch during the time that the institution of charistikion was actively used within the empire. Charistikion was a practice wherein the donation (charistike dorea) of monasteries to private individuals was made supposedly to support the operation of monasteries, but in actuality was used by the wealthy gentry to gain income.
This practice was strongly supported by Emperor Basil for which his lawPeri ton dynatonhad been enacted. The institution of charistikion was not popular among the hierarchy and was challenged by Sergios' predecessor Patriarch Sisinnios II. After he came to the see of Constantinople in 999, Patriarch Sergios continued to resist the charistike dorea. However, as Emperor Basil refused to repeal his law, Patriarch Sergios II resumed its use in 1016.
On account of this reconciliation between two ecumenical leaders that was due to the intervention of Patriarch Theophilos, the Patriarchate of Alexandria was given the title of "Judge of the Universe", with the added privilege of wearing a second stole, known as the stole of judgement (Kritato). The Patriarch of Alexandria continues to bear this title and wear two stoles till today (as seen in the photo above of the current Patriarch of Alexandria, Theodoros II)
See also
Orthodox Egypt, Patriarchate of Alexandria (tags)
The Orthodox Church of Alexandria & the Patriarchate of Alexandria
"Out of Egypt Have I Called My Son"
REJOICE, FAITHFUL EGYPT; REJOICE, BLESSED LIBYA
Ancient Christian faith (Orthodox Church) in Africa
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