Only 9 people supported transferring the church in Grinăuți to the Bessarabian Metropolis — Archbishop Markell

In the village of Grinăuți, which has about one thousand residents, only nine people supported the transfer of the local church to the Bessarabian Metropolis of the Romanian Patriarchate. Among them were the parish priest and his wife. According to Archbishop Markell of the Church of Moldova, it was he who had once ordained this priest, who served in the parish for over 13 years. His statement was published by the “First in Moldova” channel.

“Everything was peaceful and proper, he got along with everyone. He even built a house with the help of these people. So serve God and the people, seek peace with them! But no — apparently he received something he couldn’t refuse. Money! The main tool used by the Bessarabian Metropolis to convince others is money!” the archbishop stated.

Commenting on the situation, Archbishop Markell noted that the attempt to transfer the church is taking place with political backing from the current Moldovan government.

“This is a slap in the face to the authorities. Everyone knows that the Bessarabian Metropolis is supported by the current leadership of the country. And the case of Grinăuți clearly shows the extent of that support,” he emphasized.

It should also be recalled that Moldovan President Maia Sandu has repeatedly claimed that Russia is using the Orthodox Church of Moldova to strengthen its influence over the republic. According to Sandu, Moldovans who travel to Russia on pilgrimages are being trained in organizing and conducting mass protests.