The Trojičindan Assembly held in Podgorica six years ago gathered archbishops, clergy, monks, and the faithful who vowed to protect and defend holy sites, churches, monasteries, and the graves of ancestors. The assembly took place in the context of opposition to a proposed law on freedom of religion, seen as an act primarily targeting the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro. Metropolitan Amfilohije emphasized the importance of love and unity in the fight against evil and division, while the assembly’s message called on the public for the withdrawal of the proposed law and the preparation of a new one through dialogue with the church and religious communities. The assembly symbolizes resistance and a pledge to defend religious and cultural rights in Montenegro.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning reports tend to emphasize the human rights and religious freedom aspects of the issue, highlighting the opposition to the law as a defense of minority rights and criticizing the government’s approach as discriminatory and politically motivated. They often frame the church’s resistance as part of a broader struggle against nationalism and authoritarianism in Montenegro.
Center: Center-leaning coverage generally presents a balanced view, acknowledging the church’s concerns about the law and the government’s stated intentions to regulate religious property and rights. They emphasize the need for dialogue and legal clarity, recognizing the historical and cultural significance of the church while also noting the state’s interest in secular governance and legal order.
Right: Right-leaning narratives strongly support the Serbian Orthodox Church’s position, portraying the law as an attack on religious freedom and Serbian cultural identity in Montenegro. They emphasize the church’s role as a guardian of tradition and national heritage, framing the assembly as a patriotic and spiritual resistance against state overreach and secularization efforts.
