For context see the Metropolitan Joseph: The Scandal section in the Archives 2020-22 linked above. The following email from Bishop John (Abdalah) to the hierarchs, clergy, and Board of Trustees (but not the laity) of the Antiochian Archdiocese was leaked to Orthodoxy in Dialogue this evening by an insider source at Englewood. Given Patriarch John’s own words that “the circumstances related to [Metropolitan Joseph’s request for resignation] makes the resignation effective immediately [emphasis ours],” it seems ludicrous to continue the charade of commemorating Al-Zehlaoui liturgically. We hope this omission in the Patriarch’s instructions was no more than an oversight on his part, and the he corrects it before this Sunday. It would seem most logical to commemorate Bishop John, in his role as chairman of the Temporary Operating Committee, until a Patriarchal Vicar is named. To hear the former Metropolitan commemorated this Sunday will be shocking and disturbing to the faithful of the Archdiocese.

Former Metropolitan of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Brother Bishops, Reverend Clergy and Distinguished Members of the Board of Trustees,

We offer thanksgiving to God for your faithfulness to Christ and for your patience keeping our beloved Archdiocese in peace and good order.

Please find attached today’s letter, in English and Arabic, from His Beatitude Patriarch John X. This will be posted shortly on the Archdiocese’s website and social media channels.

The clergy will continue to commemorate His Eminence Metropolitan Joseph in all divine services until a Patriarchal Vicar is appointed, or until His Beatitude gives new instructions.

Yours in Christ,
Bishop John, Chairman
Temporary Operating Committee
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Attachments: 94-2022-TOC Arabic, 94-2022-TOC English

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