Romanian lawmakers recognize slain priest as martyr and national hero
A total of 276 lawmakers voted to recognize the priest, who was tortured to death during the war years, as a national hero.
Romania’s Parliament has officially recognized Archpriest Aurel Munteanu, who was tortured and killed in 1940, as a national martyr and hero of the nation. According to Basilica.ro, the bill was backed by 276 members of parliament and has now been sent to the president for signature.
Under the new legislation, Romania has also established the Day of the Romanian Martyrs of Huedin, which will be observed annually on September 10, the date of the priest’s death. On that day, public authorities and cultural institutions will be permitted to organize memorial ceremonies and academic events both in Romania and abroad.
Archpriest Aurel Munteanu became known for his pastoral, social, and educational work in the Huedin region. He built churches, founded schools and cultural journals, and represented the faithful in the first parliament of Greater Romania.
In September 1940, when the region came under Horthyst rule, the priest refused to abandon his flock despite repeated appeals to leave. On September 10, 1940, Horthyst extremists seized, tortured, and brutally murdered him.
Fr. Dan Lupuțan, Dean of Huedin, described Parliament’s decision as “an act of historical justice.”
As the UOJ reported, the Romanian Orthodox Church will add St. Gabriel Urgebadze to its liturgical calendar.
