Aurelian Iftimiu

Patriarch Daniel joins Romania’s National Day reception hosted by President Klaus Iohannis

On Saturday, His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel attended a reception at Cotroceni Palace hosted by Romanian President Klaus Iohannis on the occasion of Romania’s National Day. The event gathered representatives of state institutions, religious denominations, civil society, and members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Bucharest. “Tomorrow is Romania’s National Day, and I urge you to…

Dec 2, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

The call to mission is actual: Bishop Chrysostom of Bukoba and Western Tanzania concelebrates at National Cathedral chapel

On Saturday, His Grace Bishop Chrysostom of Bukoba and Western Tanzania (Patriarchate of Alexandria) emphasized the continued relevance of the apostolic mission, stating, “The paths of Saint Andrew the Apostle must be travelled again today.” The bishop celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Chapel of the National Cathedral in Bucharest alongside His Grace Patriarchal Auxiliary…

Dec 2, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

Romanian MEP explains why diaspora churches received most Government funding

Romanian MEP Gheorghe Cârciu explained to journalist Val Vâlcu why Romanian parishes abroad received the majority of funds provided by the Department for Romanians Abroad, which he led in recent years. “The Church is the only entity that carries out all five types of eligible activities for funding: education, culture, spirituality, media, and civil society.…

Dec 2, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

Patriarch Daniel: Jesus desires restoration of health and renewal of personal connection with God

“Jesus desires that, along with the restoration of people’s health, their personal connection with God—the Source of life and all beneficial gifts—also be renewed,” said Patriarch Daniel on Sunday, referencing the Gospel account of the healing of the blind man of Jericho. “That is why Jesus asks the blind man, What do you want me…

Dec 2, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

The spirit of unity and faith: Metropolitan Petru’s message on Romania’s National Day

“Let us not forget that the Great Union was not merely a political triumph but, above all, a victory of the Romanian soul, unwavering faith, and self-sacrifice, under the protection and care of the Romanian Orthodox Church,” noted Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia in a message delivered on Sunday, Romania’s National Day. “Let us keep this…

Dec 2, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

Romanian Orthodox Church calls for prayer, calm, and discernment during current elections

The Romanian Orthodox Church urges prayer, calm, and discernment amidst the ongoing parliamentary and presidential elections. We firmly reject any forms of behaviour that incite division or hatred and emphasize the need for dialogue throughout society to foster peace, mutual respect, and responsibility. This period, coinciding with the Nativity Fast, calls us to exhibit healthy…

Nov 29, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

Romania’s National Day to be celebrated with thanksgiving services and hero commemorations

Following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, December 1, thanksgiving services will be held in diocesan cathedrals, parish churches, and monastic places of worship across the country and abroad to mark Romania’s National Day. These services will give thanks for the freedom and unity of the Romanian people and honour the heroes who achieved the Great…

Nov 29, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

US Orthodox Bishops Assembly releases homelessness guidebook for parishes

A pastoral care and support guide for individuals who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their residences has been made available by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States to parishes. Theological insights are included in the publication, which is primarily focused on practical guidance for Orthodox missions that target…

Nov 29, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

Patriarch Daniel: Fasting alone is not enough without acts of mercy

“It is not enough to abstain from harming others; one must also do much good to achieve salvation,” Patriarch Daniel reminded the faithful last Sunday during his sermon at the Chapel of St. George the Great Martyr in the Patriarchal Residence. Reflecting on the Gospel reading about Christ’s dialogue with a rich young ruler (Luke…

Nov 28, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

CROCEU meeting in Istanbul strengthens Orthodox Church dialogue with the European Union

The Committee of Representatives of Orthodox Churches to the European Union (CROCEU) held its annual meeting from November 20 to November 23 in Istanbul under the auspices of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople. The event commenced with religious services held in historic locations and included discussions on enhancing dialogue between the Orthodox…

Nov 28, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu

Metropolitan Elia of Oulu elected Archbishop of Helsinki and All Finland: A new chapter for the Orthodox Church of Finland

During Thursday’s working session of the Church Assembly of the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Finland, Metropolitan Elia of Oulu was elected Archbishop of Helsinki and All Finland. The meeting followed the Divine Liturgy celebrated at the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior at Valaam Monastery. Archbishop Leo, the current Primate of the Autonomous Orthodox…

Nov 28, 2024Aurelian Iftimiu