Moldovan hierarch: The country's authorities interfere in church affairs
Archbishop Markell of Bălți and Fălești. Photo: YouTube screenshot
On July 2, 2025, during the broadcast of the program "Pulse" on the Canal 5 television channel, Archbishop Markell of Bălți and Fălești stated that the authorities of Moldova, led by President Maia Sandu, are interfering in church affairs and demonstrating clear double standards.
According to the hierarch of the Orthodox Church of Moldova, the Moldovan leadership officially claims that the Church is separated from the state but in reality, it turns a blind eye to the transitions of parishes from the Moldovan Metropolis to the Bessarabian Metropolis of the Romanian Orthodox Church. Meanwhile, those clergy who remain loyal to the Moldovan Metropolis and, for example, participate in pilgrimages outside the country, are subjected to criticism and political accusations.
"When it comes to transitions to the Bessarabian Metropolis, they say: 'The Church is separated from the state.' But when priests of the Moldovan Metropolis go on pilgrimages, they are immediately labeled ‘agents of influence.’ And how do holy sites in one country differ from those in another?" Archbishop Markell expressed indignation.
The bishop highlighted that he does not represent any political force, and his position is the defense of the Church: "I have not been hired by any regime – neither Moldovan nor any other. I serve the Church. If someone calls my straightforwardness aggression – it is not my fault. It is protection from gross interference," the hierarch explained.
He also emphasized the importance of prayer and spiritual support, especially in difficult times: "The Moldovan people need prayer. And if it is offered before holy relics – wherever they may be – so be it. It is foolish to refuse such an opportunity," the hierarch added.
In conclusion, the archbishop called on the country's leadership, including President Maia Sandu, to stop putting pressure on the Church and its clergy and to respect the faithful’s right to freedom of canonical choice and pilgrimage.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a hierarch of the Church of Moldova accused the Romanian authorities of seizing churches.
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