Metropolitan Antonie of Bessarabia reaffirmed the historical legitimacy of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, rejecting challenges to its canonical status, while expressing support for dialogue with the Moscow Patriarchate’s Metropolis of Moldova in an interview with Telejurnal.
The restoration of the Metropolis of Bessarabia
Referring to the restoration of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, Metropolitan Antonie recalled that in 1992 the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church decided to “restore” the historic Metropolis, following years of efforts and perseverance. He noted that he personally took part in the legal proceedings that eventually led to its official recognition in the Republic of Moldova.
“After 1992, as I studied history, I realised that much of what we had been taught at school was propaganda rather than actual history. From 1995 onwards, I became actively involved in the legal proceedings and represented the Metropolis of Bessarabia before all the courts of the Republic of Moldova.”
According to the Metropolitan, the recognition of the Metropolis marked the rectification of a historical injustice.
“It was a moment of joy and gratitude because justice had been done. In a way, the Metropolis of Bessarabia had been sent into exile, just as so many people had been exiled.”
Canonical status and relations with the Metropolis of Moldova
Referring to the canonical status of the Metropolis of Bessarabia and its relations with the Metropolis of Moldova, which is under the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate, Metropolitan Antonie stressed that the issue should be considered in light of historical realities.
He argued that the term “canonicity” has often been used to create the impression that the Metropolis of Bessarabia is an external ecclesiastical structure, whereas, according to him, history demonstrates the opposite.
“Historically, the reality is exactly the opposite. The structure of the Russian Patriarchate appeared here only after the annexation of Bessarabia in 1812. Our roots go back to the Apostle Andrew.”
Despite the historical disagreements, Metropolitan Antonie reiterated his intention to maintain an open dialogue with the Metropolis of Moldova.
“We have always shown a willingness to engage in dialogue. Certain issues can only be clarified through dialogue. As early as 1999, it was agreed that hatred and confrontation should give way to understanding and cooperation. No one benefits from conflict.”
Priorities of the new ministry
Outlining the priorities of his new ministry, Metropolitan Antonie said that the Metropolis would focus on strengthening its pastoral, missionary, social, charitable and educational work, while also seeking the restitution of its historic Church properties.
“We want to strengthen our pastoral and missionary work, our social and charitable activities, as well as our cultural and educational initiatives.”
He added that the Metropolis intends to identify priests who were martyred in 1940 and 1944 and to pursue, through legal means, the restitution of Church properties confiscated during the Soviet period.
The Metropolitan also stressed the importance of supporting clergy serving small communities, noting that many of them are forced to take on additional work in order to support their families.
Speaking more broadly about the mission of the Church, he said that bringing people closer to Christ begins with the personal example set by priests and with each person’s free response to God’s call. At the same time, he acknowledged that the legacy of the Soviet regime continues to affect the country’s religious life.
Addressing the challenges facing contemporary society, Metropolitan Antonie emphasised that prayer offers a path to inner peace.
“Prayer is our dialogue with God. If we understood the benefits of prayer and practised it more often, we would experience the presence of God, who is the Source of peace and tranquillity.”
