Romanian Patriarchate Warns of Gambling Addiction Crisis
The Romanian Patriarchate warns that gambling addiction is reshaping lives and calls for coordinated action, pastoral care, and stronger public safeguards.
BUCHAREST — The Romanian Patriarchate has issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over the growing impact of gambling in Romanian society, warning that the phenomenon is increasingly affecting individuals, families, and community stability across the country.
The Church said gambling promotes “the illusion of rapid and effortless gain,” fostering patterns that can lead to addiction, the loss of moral values, and diminished personal freedom. It also emphasized that gambling addiction should be understood as a complex disorder involving neurological changes similar to those seen in substance dependence.
"We consider it necessary to intensify the promotion of policies and measures that discourage gambling addiction and provide concrete support both for those affected and for their families," the statement reads.
Citing pastoral experience, the Patriarchate warned of severe consequences linked to gambling addiction, including financial collapse, family breakdown, social marginalization, and cases of suicide, particularly among vulnerable groups and young people. It called for coordinated responsibility among individuals, families, institutions, and public authorities.
The statement urged stronger public policies to prevent addiction and support affected persons, while reaffirming the Church’s commitment to pastoral care, spiritual counseling, and community support grounded in faith, work, and service to others.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Elpidophoros launched the St. Anastasia Fellowship Addiction Ministry.
