RomOC condems Moldovan Metropolis for defrocking clerics who defected
The building of the Bessarabian Metropolis in Chisinau. Photo: rupor.md
On November 11, 2025, the Bessarabian Metropolis of the Romanian Orthodox Church published an official statement on its website, criticizing the decision of the Synod of the Moldovan Metropolis to defrock 11 clerics who left the Cahul and Comrat Eparchy.
The text claims that the statement of the Moldovan Metropolis "contains errors and is misleading", and the very name "Orthodox Church of Moldova" is used incorrectly. Representatives of the Bessarabian Metropolis also expressed dissatisfaction with the official communication of the Synod, which condemned the clergy's involvement in politics.
The statement from the Romanian Orthodox Church states that the decisions to defrock "have no force" concerning those priests who have been under the jurisdiction of the Bessarabian Metropolis for several years and, according to their version, "do not belong to the jurisdiction of the Moldovan Metropolis".
The publication contains criticism of the Moldovan Metropolis: it is accused of "double standards", "interference in political processes", and internal instability.
The message from the Bessarabian Metropolis also contains a call for representatives of the Moldovan Metropolis to "repent" and a statement that Chisinau's actions are "interference in the life of another church jurisdiction."
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that 11 priests in Moldova were defrocked for defecting to the Romanian Church.
Read also
Oldest UOC church in Sumy marks its patronal feast
Metropolitan Yevlohiy led celebrations at the city’s oldest parish, where the wonderworking Pustynno-Hlynska Icon of the Mother of God was brought for the feast.
Hundreds of faithful in Bulgaria welcome Hawaiian Icon of the Mother of God
Patriarch Daniel led the ceremonial welcome for the myrrh-streaming icon in Sofia and thanked the ROCOR Synod for arranging its visit.
Pope Leo XIV approves new Vatican Сonstitution
The new Fundamental Law establishes the right of non-cardinals to head Vatican administrative bodies.
Church commemorates Prophet Elijah
The Church honors the memory of the prophet who lived in the ninth century BC and became an example of unwavering faith for Christians throughout the ages.
UOC priest’s home damaged in drone strike on Poltava
The home of Archpriest Kostiantyn Fisun, rector of St. Seraphim Church in Poltava, was damaged in a drone attack.
Kyiv Theological Schools begin enrollment for catechetical courses
The Kyiv Theological Academy has announced enrollment for the St. Peter Mohyla Catechetical Courses for laypeople.