University of Pittsburgh Students Visit Romanian Patriarchal Palace

Photo: basilica.ro

BUCHAREST — A group of 13 students from the University of Pittsburgh visited the Patriarchal Palace on Monday as part of a monthlong academic study program in Romania focused on religious, cultural, and public life.

The delegation, accompanied by Professor Horia M. Dijmărescu, was welcomed by Patriarchal Auxiliary Bishop Varlaam of Ploiești and Archimandrite Augustin Coman, coordinating patriarchal adviser for the Department for Christian, Interreligious, and Romanian Communities Abroad Relations.

According to the Romanian Patriarchate’s Department for External Church Relations, discussions centered on the history of the Romanian Orthodox Church, its role in society, and its relationship with the state. Students also asked about the promotion of Orthodox Christian values, educational initiatives, philanthropic outreach, and efforts to preserve Romania’s spiritual and cultural identity.

The American students are participating in a four-week study visit across Romania from May 9 through June 12, meeting religious, political, and cultural leaders throughout the country.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Romanian Patriarch welcomed a delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

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