On Tuesday, Bishop Antonie of Bălți held a thanksgiving service to mark the 22nd anniversary of the Republic of Moldova’s official recognition of the Metropolis of Bessarabia.
The service took place at the site of the future headquarters of the Diocese of Bălți, which will also include a cathedral.
During the service, Bishop Antonie recounted the challenges the Metropolis of Bessarabia faced from its reestablishment in 1992 until its legal recognition by the Republic of Moldova on July 30, 2002.
“Our mission is beautiful, and I want to thank the priests who had endured great trials, especially during those ten years before the state recognized us,” declared Bishop Antonie to Trinitas TV.
The bishop acknowledged Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia’s significant sacrifices and dedication to have the Romanian jurisdiction officially recognized by the Republic of Moldova.
“I thank the priests for their mission, devotion, love, and understanding that the mission of the Metropolis of Bessarabia is noble, beautiful, and blessed, even if it comes with certain trials. It happens that darkness tries to do its work where there is light. But we, as people of the light, who carry truth and justice, will ultimately prevail despite our difficulties,” said Bishop Antonie.
On September 14, 1992, the Eparchial Assembly of the Metropolis of Bessarabia requested the Metropolis’s reactivation. Three months later, on December 19, the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church approved the Eparchial Assembly’s request.
Photo: Bălți Diocese
Source: basilica.ro
