Repo, 50, a popular media figure, author and teacher, is apparently the first Finnish Orthodox cleric to enter the political arena.

On Tuesday the council told him he could not perform sacraments or wear priestly garb -- or even a cross -- as long as he is pursuing a political career. The bishops decreed that participation in political activity violates the tradition of the Orthodox Church canon. They added that a Member of the European Parliament wearing priestly attire would place the Finnish church into a questionable position internationally.

After he withdraws from politics, Repo may apply to have the ban lifted.

The celebrity priest, who attended Tuesday's hearing with his lawyer, said that the council had made a wise decision. He is running as a non-aligned candidate on the Social Democratic Party ticket in next month's European Parliamentary election.

Earlier this month, Justice Minister Tuija Brax said that while many people have to take a low professional profile when running for office, she found it regrettable that someone would have to give up their job entirely.

Advance voting begins on Wednesday ahead of the June 7 election.

The Finnish Orthodox Church, which is under the Patriarchate of Constantinople, claims some 60,000 members. It is one of two state-supported churches, along with the Evangelical Lutheran Church.