Faith, Culture, and Romanian Identity in Cleveland

International Symposium Dedicated to Romanian Cultural Identity in the Diaspora

by Rev. Dr. Cezar Pelin, Rector of the Cathedral

On August 15, 2026, as part of the events marking the patronal feast of St. Mary Romanian Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland, Ohio, the International Symposium “Contemporary Dimensions of Romanian Cultural Identity in the Diaspora: Tradition, Heritage, and Intercultural Dialogue” was held, offering an opportunity to reflect on how Romanian faith, culture, and heritage can be preserved and passed on to new generations in the diaspora.

The symposium was held with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Nathaniel of Detroit and of the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate, as part of the project “Romanian Identity through Culture – A National and International Program Dedicated to the Constantin Brâncu ș i Year and the 70th Anniversary of Romania ’ s Accession to UNESCO, ” organized by the “Unirea” Cultural Association, with funding from Romania’s Ministry of Culture. The event brought together representatives of the Church, the academic and cultural communities, educational and administrative institutions, as well as members of the Romanian community in…