The Metropolis of Cluj, Maramureș and Sălaj marked on Wednesday the 20th anniversary of its establishment with a Divine Liturgy at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Cluj-Napoca.
The occasion also marked 15 years since the enthronement of Metropolitan Andrei as head of the Metropolis.
The Divine Liturgy was concelebrated by Metropolitan Andrei of Cluj, Maramureș and Sălaj, Metropolitan Iosif of Western and Southern Europe, and several hierarchs, including Bishops Ignatie of Huși, Iustin of Maramureș and Sătmar, Benedict of Sălaj, Timotei of Spain and Portugal, and Macarie of Northern Europe, together with assistant bishops.
A Providential Act
Metropolitan Andrei highlighted the significance of the 2006 establishment of the Metropolis, describing it as a providential event.
“By the grace of God, this took place 20 years ago,” he said, recalling the role of his predecessor, Metropolitan Bartolomeu, whom he described as “a man of great culture” and “an energetic leader” whose efforts made the reorganisation possible.
The establishment was seen as “a historical reparation” that restored the tradition of the former diocese of Feleac, founded during the time of Saint Stephen the Great.
Metropolitan Andrei concluded with a call to gratitude and responsibility, underlining the importance of deeds in the life of faith: “Saint James says: faith without works is dead. Therefore, we thank God for what has been accomplished and pray for His help in what lies ahead.”
Cultural Events
Between 24 March and 19 April, a photo-documentary exhibition entitled “Past and Future – Two Decades of the Metropolis of Cluj” is being held at the Metropolitan Museum in Cluj.
The exhibition features 13 panels illustrating the events of 24–25 March 2006, when the Metropolis was officially proclaimed, offering visitors a visual journey through its recent history.
A highlight of the exhibition is the display of the original Synodal Tomos issued at the founding of the Metropolis, a document of significant historical and symbolic value.
The exhibition opening is scheduled for Friday at 11:00, marking the start of the National Scientific Session “Two Decades of the Metropolis of Cluj: Tradition and Contemporary Relevance”.
Photo: Metropolis of Clujului / Darius Echim
