Greek Modernist Theology in 20th–21st Centuries

In the 20th century, traditionalist and modernist tendencies were persistently present in Greek theology: theologians of the generation of the thirties opposed the Brotherhood of Theologians “Life”, John Romanides, Metropolitan John (Zizioulas), Panagiotis Christou, Savvas Agouridis. In the eighties, the schism in Greek theology continued to expand. Relations between theologians (sometimes representatives of the same academic corporations) escalated, the opposing sides accused each other of heretical views and venality (receiving grants from non-governmental organizations and serving the interests of foreign states). At present, Greek modernist theologians are more dynamic and productive than theologians who adhere to a traditionalist and conservative agenda. “Political Theology”, “Ecumenical Theology” and other modernist theological schools have merged into a single movement with a common agenda, active international cooperation and high activity not only in academic journals, but also on the Internet. Despite exercising significant influence, Greek modernist theology is poorly studied in Russian historiography. Scientific publications are devoted to individual personalities and trends, rather than a holistic understanding of this phenomenon. The study presented fills a gap formed in Russian sources and is a comprehensive study of the genesis, historical path and current state of Greek Orthodox modernism.