Lately there has been a lot of buzz in Moldova over the purported lifestyle of a Bishop of the Moscow Patriarchate, making headlines in local media. The Bishop of Bălți and Fălești, Marchel Mihăescu, is reported to have a son from a past relationship and to possess a significant fortune.
According to a report by nordnews.md, Bishop Marchel allegedly had a secret affair with a woman, resulting in the birth of their son, Roman Tiskevich, on July 22, 1994. Raised by his adoptive father, Roman took his surname. Despite never publicly acknowledging his son, Bishop Marchel has reportedly always remained close to Roman, often bringing him to services and supporting him through health challenges.
With Marchel’s backing, Roman graduated from the Law School of Alecu Russo State University in Bălți and subsequently worked in the legal department of the Municipality of Bălți. More recently, he has been employed as a customs inspector at Customs North. Although their relationship is not overtly visible, they have been seen together at various religious events. For instance, on June 22, they attended the celebration of Saint Agafia at the Cușelăuca monastery, where Roman assisted his father by carrying his vestments and other ecclesiastical items.

The resemblance between Bishop Marchel and Roman Tiskevich is striking, confirmed by comparing photos of Marchel from his youth, when he served in the Soviet army, with those of Roman. Additionally, Bishop Marchel resides in a luxurious 316-square-meter house on Decebal Street in Bălți. This two-storey building is registered in the name of Roman Tiskevich, as evidenced by asset declarations over the past eight years. Moldovan media reports indicate that several properties have been registered in Roman’s name under the condition of Marchel’s lifelong care.

The revelations about Bishop Marchel’s alleged secret life and considerable wealth have sparked significant controversy in Moldova, raising questions about his adherence to ecclesiastical vows and financial propriety.