The head of the Bessarabian Metropolis called on the Moldovan authorities to facilitate dialogue with the Orthodox Church of Moldova

Metropolitan Anthony, head of the Bessarabian Metropolis of the Romanian Orthodox Church, has proposed that Moldovan government authorities mediate in resolving relations with the Orthodox Church of Moldova. The aim of this proposal is to find ways to resolve interchurch differences and maintain peace in society.

During an official meeting with Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu, Metropolitan Anthony emphasized that constructive dialogue between the two metropolias is essential for reducing social tensions. The hierarch appealed to government officials to assist in establishing contacts with the leadership of the OCM in order to steer existing disputes toward a peaceful and constructive resolution.

In addition to issues of ecclesiastical cooperation, historical aspects of justice were also discussed at the meeting. The metropolitan raised the issue of the “return” of church property that was confiscated during the Soviet period, insisting either on the restitution of historic buildings or on receiving appropriate financial compensation. In addition, the head of the Bessarabian Metropolis called on the authorities to officially recognize affected clergy as victims of communist repression and to ensure the protection of clergy from discrimination.

As a reminder, we previously reported that the Synod of the Bessarabian Metropolis of the Romanian Orthodox Church had officially nominated two candidates for the vacant position of Bishop of Bălți. The choice fell on Archimandrite Nicodim Petre and Archimandrite Dosofteu Dižmărescu, whose nominations will now be submitted for consideration by the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church. It is noteworthy that, in doing so, the Romanian Patriarchate is effectively creating a parallel hierarchy, thereby openly escalating tensions with the Orthodox Church of Moldova, which is the dominant Orthodox denomination in the country.