March 9 marks both the feast day of the Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebaste and the National Day of Commemoration for Anti-Communist Political Prisoners from the period 1944–1989.
On this day, we especially remember the Romanian freedom fighters who opposed the totalitarian communist regime, endured imprisonment in labour camps and prisons and bore witness to the Orthodox faith against communist atheism.
This year, dedicated to the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate, also includes the historic canonization of sixteen Orthodox priests and confessors from the 20th century—exemplary figures of sacrifice and Christian mission during the difficult years of communist totalitarianism.
As a sign of gratitude and recognition, we offer prayers on this day for the eternal rest of those who sacrificed themselves in upholding and defending the Orthodox faith, which the atheist regime persistently sought to undermine.
The Romanian Orthodox Church remembers these freedom fighters—true models of courage, dignity, steadfast faith, and patriotism—at every Divine Liturgy, alongside the heroes of all times and places, for they gave their lives for the freedom, unity, and dignity of the Romanian people.
Romanian Patriarchate Press Office
Photo: Basilica.ro Files / Mircea Florescu
