Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia sent a message to all Bessarabians on Tuesday to commemorate the Independence Day of the Republic of Moldova.
“On this celebratory occasion, we extend our congratulations to all Bessarabian Romanians, whether residing in this blessed land or abroad in search of better living and working conditions,” noted the Metropolitan of Bessarabia.
“Independence Day serves as a moment of profound reflection on the crucial role played by the Romanian Orthodox Church in preserving and perpetuating our linguistic, ethnic, and spiritual identity, starting from the painful separation from the Motherland in the 19th century,” His Eminence continued.
“The bishops, priests, and monastics of Bessarabia demonstrated great courage and sacrifice in steadfastly proclaiming the truth that the people between the Prut and the Dniester are Romanian, risking exile, persecution, or martyrdom.”
The Sacrifice of Priests Preserved Romanian Identity
“Despite facing persecution, torture, and even martyrdom, they bravely confronted the challenges of history with a love for the nation, contributing to the awakening of national consciousness, preserving ancestral faith, and strengthening our bonds with our brethren across the Prut,” added Metropolitan Petru.
“The Metropolis of Bessarabia, set to celebrate its centennial next year, has always been a pillar of support for our people. Through consistent evangelical teachings and unwavering pastoral and social care, our Metropolis has served as a hub of culture and spirituality, publishing books, establishing educational institutions, investing in national heritage, constructing churches and monasteries, and nurturing individuals who have influenced history,” he continued.
“Regrettably, many individuals who contributed to these accomplishments were subjected to persecution, exile, or even death, yet they persisted in praying and striving for the freedom and dignity of our people, sustaining the hope for a national revival,” His Eminence remarked.
“Following the period of Soviet repression, when the Orthodox Church in Bessarabia was tainted by external influences, our clergy, intellectuals, and believers, united in purpose, advocated for the reestablishment of the Metropolis of Bessarabia at the Eparchial Assembly on September 14, 1992.”
The Reactivation of the Metropolis of Bessarabia: A Historic Achievement
“With the approval of the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church, on December 19, 1992, our Metropolis was reinstated as an autonomous Metropolis following the old calendar, integrated into the Romanian Orthodox Church, thus affirming canonical continuity and autonomy, free from external influence,” Metropolitan Petru elaborated.
“The reestablishment of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, subsequent to the Independence of the Republic of Moldova, stands as one of the greatest national triumphs, a culmination of the prayers and sacrifices offered by generations of Christians,” he stated.
“Today, we gaze towards our future as a nation and a country with optimism, trusting that God will continue to safeguard us. Despite the challenges of the past three decades, the Romanian Orthodox Church in Bessarabia has persevered and thrived, experiencing remarkable growth,” His Eminence Metropolitan Petru wrote.
“This advancement would not have been possible without the backing of scholars, intellectuals, clergy, upright politicians, and patriots, from both sides of the Prut, who contributed to the resurgence of national consciousness, enabling more Romanians in Bessarabia to rediscover their true identity and unite under the banner of faith and spiritual liberty,” he emphasized.
“Therefore, we extend our felicitations to all citizens of the Republic of Moldova, both domestically and abroad, reminding them of our splendid country, rich in traditions, values, and resources, aspiring to hold a place of esteem within the broader European family. May God illuminate and guide our path towards truth, justice, love for the nation, and the Church,” concluded Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia.
His Eminence conveyed the wish of “Many years to come!” and imparted paternal blessings to his flock.
Independence Day, observed annually on August 27, serves as the national day of the Republic of Moldova, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence from the Soviet Union on August 27, 1991.
Source: Basilica.ro / Photo: Metropolis of Bessarabia