His Eminence Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia issued a message on Monday marking 101 years since the Archdiocese of Chișinău was elevated to the rank of Metropolis through legislative acts confirmed by Royal Decree.
“This anniversary recalls the foundation of the sacrificial altar in Bessarabia, built upon the labour, patience and fidelity to truth of our forebears, who understood that ecclesiastical organisation on the left bank of the Prut, within the Romanian Patriarchate, represents the expression of an identity consciously assumed, defended and confessed throughout history,” Metropolitan Petru said.
“The elevation of the Archdiocese of Chișinău to metropolitan rank affirmed a natural order, after a century of occupation, interference and uprooting, manifested through the imposition of foreign language and traditions, restoring the spiritual life of Romanians between the Prut and the Dniester to unity of faith, language and tradition.”
A Metropolis Shaped by Historical Trials
His Eminence noted that the history of the eparchy was soon marked again by ruptures, persecution and the forced imposition of a foreign ecclesiastical structure.
“The Metropolis of Bessarabia, reactivated in 1992, continues its sacred mission of stability and national unity through the steadfast efforts of hierarchs, priests, deacons, monks, nuns and faithful, who bear witness to the ancestral Church, rooted in present reality and engaged in serving the Christian community,” he said.
“Beyond statistics and visible achievements, the substance of this work is measured in our capacity to build communities, to form consciences and to sustain the spiritual balance of society in the Republic of Moldova, which has chosen its direction and path.”
A Moment for Reflection
The Metropolitan added that the anniversary offers an opportunity for reflection and evaluation of past efforts, as well as for a clear-sighted commitment to future initiatives.
“The current context calls for strengthening institutional mechanisms, intensifying missionary and pastoral work, and developing coherent initiatives in the educational, social and cultural fields, aimed at reinforcing the presence and relevance of the Romanian Orthodox Church in the lives of the citizens of the Republic of Moldova.”
In conclusion, His Eminence expressed gratitude to all those who have contributed over time to the consolidation of the eparchy and its mission.
“We extend to all hierarchs, clergy and faithful of the Metropolis of Bessarabia our archpastoral blessing, together with a call to unity, steadfastness and full commitment in serving the Church and the nation,” Metropolitan Petru stated.
Photo: Metropolis of Bessarabia
