At the start of the new academic year in the Republic of Moldova, Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia issued a message calling for responsibility, maturity, and building life on strong foundations.
In his message, he recalled that the first Romanian schools were born in the porch of the Church, where people always understood that education and faith go hand in hand.
“The beginning of a new school and university year is a moment of emotion, enthusiasm, and responsibility. It is a step forward on the path of knowledge, but also a call to inner maturity, to laying life on solid foundations,” he said.
“Books and prayer, reason and devotion, mind and heart—together they form the complete human being,” the metropolitan emphasised.
‘Learn for yourselves, not for diplomas’
Addressing pupils and students, Metropolitan Petru urged them to study not only for grades and diplomas, but also to become good and courageous individuals.
“Children and young people strive to learn not only to obtain marks, diplomas, or recognition, but to become good, brave, and responsible human beings. Place prayer and longing for God at the foundation of your knowledge, for only then will the fruit of learning be blessed. Do not forget that true friendship, respect for teachers, and obedience to parents are steps toward wisdom,” he added.
Message to parents and teachers
The metropolitan also addressed teachers, whom he called “spiritual parents of young hearts.”
“Every interaction can be an example, and every warm look and encouragement can shape a young person’s life. Teach them knowledge, but also virtue; science, but also faith. Dare to be not only teachers, but also spiritual parents of their hearts,” he urged.
For families, he underlined that “the home remains the first school.” Parents and grandparents are called to instil in children a love of prayer, respect for tradition, and appreciation of honest work, as their model of life is the first reference for the younger generation.
“In you, children see their first models of love, sacrifice, and faith. Teach them to love prayer, respect tradition, and value honest labour. Sow in their hearts the conviction that a person is not great because of what they have, but because of who they are—through purity of heart and good deeds,” Metropolitan Petru said.
He concluded by praying that God grant students courage and joy, teachers inspiration and dignity, and parents and grandparents blessing and peace.
“Christ, the Good Teacher, awaits us with open arms to fill our souls with grace and our minds with wisdom,” the Romanian Orthodox hierarch said.
Photo: Metropolis of Bessarabia
