In the context of the sixth anniversary of the consecration of the National Cathedral altar, Father Nicolae Crîngașu, a patriarchal adviser and coordinator of the construction project, provided an update on construction progress during an interview with Trinitas TV.
Father Crîngașu highlighted significant advancements since 2018, including visible structural developments and extensive work on the complex installation systems. “We are making every effort to complete the necessary installations, so by God’s grace, we can open the main worship area by next year and secure the required authorizations for public services,” he explained.
A grand consecration ceremony marking the Romanian Patriarchate’s Centennial is planned for autumn 2025. While full completion is unlikely by then, the team is striving to reach an advanced stage to allow regular services to continue thereafter.
Efforts are also focused on completing the exterior and significant portions of the interior mosaics. Father Crîngașu shared ambitious targets, including finalizing the Grand Dome’s mosaic—spanning 4,200 square meters—by December 2024. He praised the dedication of Daniel Codrescu’s team of artists, who expanded from 120 to 220 members to meet the demands.
“In 60 months, we’ve completed 6,400 square meters of mosaic, and we aim to match this pace by summer 2025,” Father Crîngașu said. With a staggering monthly output of over 340 square meters, the team is exceeding expectations.
He also thanked donors for supporting the project and outlined plans for adjacent buildings, including Saint Andrew’s Grotto in the cathedral’s basement. Calling the initiative “the greatest joy of my life,” Father Crîngașu reaffirmed his commitment to seeing the monumental project through to completion.
Photo: Trinitas TV
Source: basilica.ro
