Neophytus V

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Neophytus V was a Greek clergyman who served as Metropolitan of Athens and all Greece between 1833 and 1861.

Neophytus V was born Nikolaos Metaxas, in 1762, in Athens, to a well-to-do family. He was ordained a deacon in 1792. In 1803, he became Bishop of Talantio (Livadeia).

When the Greek War of Independence broke out in 1821, Neophytus was an active supporter. He led the revolt in Atalanti and supported Athanasios Diakos until the latter's capture at the Battle of Alamana and subsequent execution.

He took part in the First National Assembly at Epidaurus as a delegate from eastern Rumeli.

After independence was achieved, Neophytus was ordained Metropolitan of Athens in 1833. When the Church of Greece became autocephalus (independent) of the Patriarchate of Constantinople in 1836, Neophytus became head of the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece, a position he held for life.

As Metropolitan of Athens, Neophytus fought for the rights of the Church and its properties, often coming in conflict with King Otto.

Neophytus died in December 1861 at the age of 99. He was buried, seated on a throne, on December 30 of that year.