Ciprian-Vasile Olinici, State Secretary for Religious Affairs in the Romanian Government, visited the Metropolitan Residence in Chișinău last Thursday, where he was received by the Metropolitan of Bessarabia.
The discussions focused on the pastoral, social, and cultural activities of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, as well as on projects supported by the Romanian state.
Father Gabriel-Andrei Gherasă presented a detailed report on ongoing works, noting that the 2025 calendar includes events dedicated to the Centennial of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, in connection with the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate.
His Eminence Metropolitan Petru expressed gratitude for the support provided by Romania, describing it as essential for church life in Bessarabia, and extended an official invitation to participate in the centennial celebrations.
The State Secretary praised the role of the Metropolis as a pillar of Romanian identity and emphasized that governmental support is both a moral and historical duty.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the ties between the Romanian Orthodox Church and the faithful in Bessarabia.
Photo: Metropolis of Bessarabia
