Ciprian-Vasile Olinici, State Secretary for Religious Affairs in the Romanian Government, visited the Metropolitan Residence in Chișinău on Thursday, where he was received by the Metropolitan of Bessarabia, Petru.
The discussions focused on the pastoral, social, and cultural activity of the Metropolitanate of Bessarabia, as well as on projects supported by the Romanian state. Fr. Gabriel-Andrei Gherasă presented a detailed report on the ongoing works, and outlined the calendar of events for 2025, which will include commemorations marking the Centennial of the Metropolitanate of Bessarabia, in connection with the Centennial of the Romanian Patriarchate.
Metropolitan Petru expressed his heartfelt thanks for Romania’s continuous support, describing it as essential for the ecclesiastical life in Bessarabia. He also extended an official invitation for participation in the upcoming centennial celebrations.
State Secretary Olinici highlighted the vital role of the Metropolitanate of Bessarabia as a pillar of Romanian identity and emphasized that the Romanian government’s support is both a moral and historical responsibility.
The visit aimed to strengthen the ties between the Romanian Orthodox Church and the faithful in Bessarabia, reaffirming shared spiritual, cultural, and national bonds.
Source: Basilica.ro
