Moldovan Orthodox Synod Rejects 'Unfounded Attacks,' Reaffirms Autonomy
The Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church of Moldova denounced recent attacks as divisive, reaffirmed its autonomous status and non-political mission, and urged unity amid rising tensions over alleged Russian influence during Moldova’s push for EU integration.
CHISINAU — The Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church of Moldova, led by Met. Vladimir, has strongly condemned recent "unfriendly and derogatory" public attacks, labeling them unjustified and dangerous to national unity, reports OPC News Service.
In its November 11 statement (Minutes No. 015), the Synod rejected the term "Russian Church," stressing that it is the church of all Moldovans regardless of ethnicity, language, or politics. It reaffirmed its full administrative autonomy, granted by the Russian Orthodox Church in the 1990s, while maintaining only spiritual ties with Moscow.
The church declared it has never opposed Moldova’s chosen development path and operates strictly within national law, with a purely spiritual mission. The Synod urged believers and leaders to preserve peace and mutual respect, warning against repeating the divisive mistakes seen in neighboring countries.
The statement comes amid heightened political tensions over alleged Russian influence as Moldova pursues EU integration.
Recently, the UOJ reported that Orthodox priests and activists in Moldova complain of censorship, harassment, and state surveillance under pro-EU government as the Church faces mounting pressure to conform to LGBT policies.
