His Eminence Metropolitan Nicolae of the Americas awarded the American Metropolitan Cross to Marius-Gabriel Lazurca, former Ambassador of Romania to the United Mexican States.
The solemn ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Patriarchal Palace in Bucharest, in the presence of Father Daniel Ene, Administrative Vicar of the Archdiocese of the United States of America, and Father Costin Spiridon, Patriarchal Counsellor within the Department for Christian, Interreligious, and Romanian Communities Abroad Relations of the Patriarchal Administration.
The highest distinction of the Metropolis of the Americas was presented to the former ambassador in recognition of his constant support for the Romanian Orthodox Church and his dedicated service to Romanian communities in Latin America.
Metropolitan Nicolae also presented him with an icon of the Mother of God and an honorary diploma.
“During his mandate in Mexico City, Ambassador Marius Lazurca distinguished himself through exceptional diplomatic and cultural activity, skillfully combining the official representation of the Romanian state with the discreet service of the community,” the metropolis noted.
The distinction had been approved by His Eminence Metropolitan Nicolae as early as March 2025, but the formal presentation was scheduled to coincide with Mr Lazurca’s visit to Bucharest for the consecration of the National Cathedral.
Mr Marius Lazurca currently serves as Presidential Advisor to President Nicușor Dan on foreign policy.
Photo: Romanian Orthodox Metropolis of the Americas
