Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythira was arrested after he opened the church doors, conducted church service and with bells ringing called on the faithful to come to church on Friday, despite a ban on gatherings to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The Metropolitan presented himself to the police station on Saturday after hearing word the Mayor of Kythera, Mr. Stratos Charchalakis ordered authorities to take him into custody.

Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythira told police that the encyclical sent by Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, Ieronymos II had not yet arrived, which informed him of the government ban.

Following a Public Prosecutor’s order, he was released and given strict instructions to comply with the prohibitions laid down by law.

The incident was also confirmed by the Mayor of Kythera, who stated: “It completely violates the government’s mandates regarding church and religious gatherings and is currently in police custody. Reports were made and procedures were initiated. A case file has been drawn up and the competent prosecutor has been informed.”