“The Union of the Romanian Principalities was the day when the sons of Moldavia and Wallachia embraced as brothers, under the same flag and faith, laying the foundation of the modern Romanian state,” said His Eminence Metropolitan of Bessarabia in a pastoral message marking the 166th anniversary of this historic event.
“This Union was not merely an administrative or political act; it was a liturgy of the nation, a divine work of Providence, sealed with the sacrifices, tears, and prayers of a people who, through the centuries, never lost their hope in God and their desire to remain whole and united.”
“On the altar of this Union were offered not only political strategies and decisions but also hearts burning for unity in faith, language, and nation,” affirmed the Metropolitan.
A Message for Bessarabian Romanians
“Dear Bessarabian Romanian brothers, let us not forget that we, who live between the Prut and the Dniester, carry both the burden and the blessing of a history full of trials in our souls. Bessarabia was often torn from the body of the motherland but could never be removed from the heart of the nation.”
Unity: A Holy Covenant and Victory
“The sacrifices of our forebears, both clergy and laity, bear witness that national unity is more than an ideal—it is a holy covenant, a cross to bear, and a victory to achieve,” the Metropolitan continued.
“The Union of the Romanian Principalities teaches us that the strength of a people lies not in wealth but in its unity.”
“Just as a family is strong only when it remains united, so too does a nation preserve its identity when all its children live, feel, and fight together for the same aspiration,” His Eminence reminded.
“For us, Bessarabian Romanians, this day is not merely a celebration of the past but a call to responsibility. We are called to continue the sacrifice of our forebears, keeping our faith and identity amidst the adversities of history.”
Metropolitan Petru concluded his message by wishing “Happy Anniversary!” to all Romanians and praying for the Romanian people to remain under God’s grace.
On Friday, marking 166 years since the Union of the Romanian Principalities, thanksgiving services were held in all places of worship under the jurisdiction of the Metropolis of Bessarabia.
Photo: Archdiocese of Suceava and Rădăuți
