Metropolitan Petru issued a message urging the citizens of the Republic of Moldova to participate in the presidential election.
In addition to choosing the new president, Moldovan citizens will also have the opportunity to vote on a constitutional amendment that could pave the way for the country’s accession to the European Union.
Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia emphasized that civic participation is “not only an act of civic responsibility but also a fulfillment of our Christian calling to contribute to the common good.”
“Just as God has granted us freedom, He calls us to use it in the service of good, truth, peace, and justice,” His Eminence stated.
“The vote is an expression of love for our neighbor, our family, our nation, and the Church. We are not voting only for ourselves today but also for our children and grandchildren, for future generations to whom we will pass on both values and the conditions in which they will live.”
“A well-organized country, governed by sound Christian principles, is the foundation upon which we can raise our families and preserve our faith, traditions, culture, and Romanian identity.”
Future directions
Metropolitan Petru also highlighted that Romania and the European sphere are “essential reference points for our trajectory, both culturally and spiritually.”
“Our belonging to the European space is more than just a political or economic goal; it concerns preserving and strengthening our Romanian and European identity.”
“As our Lord Jesus Christ urged us to be the ‘light of the world’ (Matthew 5:14), our vote can be an act of enlightenment and a blessing for the future of our country.”
“Each of us has a voice, and that voice can contribute to the transformation of society. Our calling as authentic Christians is to be actively involved in public life, not to remain indifferent to the fate of our fellow citizens or the future of our country.”
“Romania and Europe are watching us—not only as political partners but as brothers. Let us use this opportunity to reaffirm our unity of spirit, through which we share the same vision for the future.”
“I encourage you to go to the polling stations with the clear conscience that you have done your part for the good of the country, for its peace and prosperity. Regardless of political preferences, the important thing is to participate, to cast your vote, and to contribute to the common good,” Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia concluded.
Guidelines from the Holy Synod
As both Romania and the Republic of Moldova face electoral periods in 2024, the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church issued a directive earlier this year, reminding clergy that they are prohibited from publicly expressing political opinions or engaging in electoral campaigns.
The next presidential elections in Romania are scheduled for November 24 and December 8, 2024.
Photo: Metropolis of Bessarabia
Source: basilica.ro
