Moldovan Orthodox Synod Rejects ‘Unfounded’ Attacks, Affirms Autonomy and Loyalty to People

OCP News Service – 12/11/2025

Chişinău – Moldova: The Synod of the Orthodox Church of Moldova, meeting under the leadership of His Holiness Vladimir, Metropolitan of Chisinau and All Moldova, issued a strongly worded address to its clergy and people, forcefully rejecting what it termed “unfriendly and derogatory statements” and “provocative and denigrating messages” circulating in the public space.

The decision was finalized in Minutes No. 015 on November 11, 2025, following a report by Metropolitan Vladimir on the nature of the messages targeting the church. The Synod stated it views these public attacks as “unjustified, unfounded and dangerous for the spiritual unity of the people of the Republic of Moldova.”

Autonomy and National Identity Asserted

A central point of the Synod’s address was a direct rebuttal of the label “Russian Church.” The Orthodox Church of Moldova firmly clarified its identity:

“The Orthodox Church of Moldova is not a ‘Russian Church’, but is the Church of the entire people living in the Republic of Moldova, made up of believers of different ethnicities. It is open to everyone, regardless of the language spoken, political affiliation or cultural option.”

Furthermore, the Synod emphasized its structural independence, confirming that it is “free and independent in its governance” due to the 1994 Tomos of Independence granted by the Moscow Patriarchate, which established its “full autonomy in organization and pastoral care.”

Non-Interference in State Politics

Addressing concerns about its political alignment, the Orthodox Church of Moldova reiterated its strictly spiritual mission. The address stated unequivocally:

“The Orthodox Church of Moldova has never opposed the development vector chosen by our State. The mission of the Church is strictly spiritual, centered on the pastoral care of believers, supporting those in need, and preaching the Gospel of the Savior Jesus Christ.”

The Church commits to operating “in full respect for the legislation of the Republic of Moldova.”

Appeal for Peace and Warning Against Division

In its conclusion, the Synod issued an urgent appeal to all stakeholders to ensure societal harmony. The Church called upon its ministers and believers to “remain united in faith, in peace and prayer,” and urged political and opinion leaders to exercise “mutual respect and discernment” to avoid deepening social tensions.

The address carried a notable warning, referencing the experiences of a “neighboring country” where attempts to outlaw the Orthodox Church resulted in “failures and profound social unrest.” The Synod stated, “It is not the case for the Republic of Moldova to repeat the mistakes of others, but it is time to maintain our balance and wisdom, for the common good of our people.”

The statement concluded with an affirmation of the Church’s permanent place within the nation: “The Orthodox Church in Moldova was, is and will remain at home, among its people, serving them with love, prayer and responsibility, for the glory of God and the good of our country.”

The address was signed by Metropolitan Vladimir and 11 other high-ranking prelates, including Archbishop Sava of Tiraspol and Dubasari, Archbishop Anatolie of Cahul and Comrat, and Archbishop Petru of Ungheni and Nisporeni.

Source:

OCP News Service