Daniil noted that the decision to rename the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church (EAOC) was made during the latest session of the church council, and a new name has already been submitted for registration.
The bishop explained that the church "further emphasizes local identity" and demonstrates that it operates in accordance with the laws of Estonia, "while adhering to church canons."
ERR points out that in August 2024, the EAOC attempted to change its name by removing the reference to the Moscow Patriarchate, but this option was rejected by the Estonian Ministry of the Interior.
The ministry deemed the name "Estonian Orthodox Church" inconsistent with the law on churches and congregations, as it does not sufficiently differ from the already registered Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church, and also "creates a misleading impression that such a church supposedly encompasses all Orthodox believers in Estonia."