Synod of the Orthodox Church of Moldova: "We are not a "Russian church", but the church of the whole nation"

The Synod of the Orthodox Church of Moldova (OCM) issued an official address to the clergy and people, in which it responded to the “provocative and denigrating” statements about the Church spreading in the public space. The document emphasizes that the PCM is independent in its management, does not interfere in politics and unites believers of all nationalities of the country, and attempts to discredit it are dangerous for the spiritual unity of society.

In an appeal published on the official website of the Metropolitan Church of Moldova, the Synod expresses deep concern over the “unfriendly and derogatory” statements. In response to the accusations, the Church provided several key clarifications, calling the attacks unfounded and dangerous for the unity of the nation.

First, the Synod categorically rejects the thesis that the OCM is a “Russian Church.” “Our Church is the Church of all the people living in the Republic of Moldova, consisting of believers of different nationalities. It is open to all, regardless of language, political affiliation or cultural preferences,” the text reads.

Secondly, it emphasizes the full autonomy and independence of the OCM in governance, which was granted by the Tomos of the Moscow Patriarchate back in 1994. Since then, as noted in the appeal, the Metropolia of Chisinau and All Moldova has been carrying out its activities in full compliance with the legislation of the Republic of Moldova.

In addition, the Synod stated that the Church has never opposed the vector of development chosen by the state, as its mission is exclusively spiritual and focused on the pastoral care of the faithful. The hierarchs called on statesmen, politicians and opinion leaders for mutual respect and prudence so as not to aggravate tensions in society.

“We recall that a similar experience in a neighboring country, where attempts were made to outlaw the Orthodox Church, ended in failure and deep social unrest. Moldova should not repeat the mistakes of others,” the authors of the appeal warned. In conclusion, the Synod assured that the Orthodox Church of Moldova “was, is and will be at home, in the midst of its people”, serving them with love and responsibility.

Recall that earlier we reported that the head of the Metropolitan Metropolitan of Bessarabia, Metropolitan Peter (Paduraru) of Bessarabia sent an official message to the new government of the Republic of Moldova, in which he expressed his support, blessing and hope for wise and dedicated governance of the country. In his address, the hierarch emphasized the Church’s willingness to cooperate with the authorities in order to achieve unity, stability and prosperity of the nation.