On New Year’s Day, during the proclamation of the Solemn Year of the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate and the Commemorative Year of Romanian Orthodox Spiritual Fathers and Confessors of the 20th Century, a new icon titled “The Assembly of Romanian Saints” was presented, marking this jubilee year.
The artwork, measuring 90 x 60 cm, was created by church painter Costel Olărean under the guidance of the Church Painting Commission of the Romanian Patriarchate.
Symbolic Design of the Icon
The upper section of the icon features the Mother of God enthroned with the Infant Christ, surrounded by angels in glory and the National Cathedral depicted in the background as a symbol of unity and faith.
In the lower section, Saint Andrew the Apostle, the Patron Saint of Romania, is centrally placed and surrounded by Romanian saints depicted hierarchically, following Byzantine iconography. These include bishops, martyrs, and monastics, among them 16 contemporary saints canonized by the Romanian Orthodox Church in honor of the Patriarchate’s Centennial.
Spiritual Legacy and Inspiration
“Their spiritual legacy inspires us today to preserve the Orthodox faith and defend Christian virtues and values amidst modern challenges,” said Patriarch Daniel during the icon’s presentation.
“These saints and confessors are living icons of our Church, teaching us that sacrificial love for Christ is the highest calling of every Christian.”
The newly canonized saints include Romanian Orthodox confessors and spiritual fathers who endured persecution under the communist regime.
“They were canonized for their steadfast faith and Christian dignity in the face of oppression,” explained the Patriarch.
“Their canonization is an act of recognition for their sanctified lives and sacrifices—a testimony that transcends any political context, affirming that true Christian witness upholds eternal values of faith and love for God, rather than worldly ideologies.”
Centennial Celebrations and Events
To mark the 100th anniversary of the Romanian Patriarchate, numerous events will take place throughout the year, including the canonization proclamations of the new saints and the great consecration of the National Cathedral.
This year also commemorates 140 years of autocephaly (independence) of the Romanian Orthodox Church.
The presentation of this icon serves as a reminder of faith, sacrifice, and unity, celebrating the legacy of Romania’s saints and the resilience of the Orthodox Church.
Photo: Romanian Patriarchate
