← News feed Romanian Orthodox Church

Metropolitan Antonie called the workers of the Diaconia Social Mission the hands through which Christ helpstranslated

September 4, 2026 · 1 min read

His Eminence Father Antonie, Metropolitan of Bessarabia and Exarch of Plaiurilor, visited on Wednesday the Diaconia Social Mission, the social-philanthropic arm of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, which is celebrating 25 years of activity this year.

"You are the hands through which Christ helps the one in suffering, and the work you do is of great value and priceless," the hierarch told the workers.

The metropolitan father was met by Igor Belei, executive director of the organization and advisor to the Archdiocese of Chisinau, who presented him with the development of the institution, the main projects and the way the team responds to the needs of people in difficult situations.

Meeting with the beneficiaries On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Metropolitan Antonie visited the support centers of the Diaconia Social Mission of the Metropolis of Bessarabia and met with some of the beneficiaries. Photo: Metropolis of Bessarabia His Eminence visited the centers, work spaces and social services of the Diaconia Social Mission and talked with each program coordinator.

At the "Sfânta Ana" Multifunctional Center, the metropolitan father also spoke with the beneficiaries, a group...

Source: Агентство Basilica (română) · Read the full story →

⚑ Report

💬 Comments (4) 🌐 Translate comments

Matthew Brown

It's good to see Diaconia hitting 25 years. The part where the Metropolitan told the workers they are "the hands through which Christ helps those who suffer" really stuck with me. Sounds like the kind of steady, quiet work that actually changes lives for people in tough spots.

Elizabeth Baker

Igor Belei did a good job showing the Metropolitan around. Twenty-five years is a long time of steady work, and it's nice to hear the focus is still on sitting down with the people at the Sfânta Ana center instead of just the programs on paper. That line about being "the hands through which Christ helps" feels exactly right for what those folks do day in and day out.

Emily Young

Igor really seems to have a clear head for that kind of tour. Twenty-five years is impressive, especially when you think how many times the economic situation in Moldova has shifted. The “hands of Christ” line stuck with me too; it’s the kind of thing you remember when you’re packing food boxes at 7 a.m. on a cold morning. Have you ever visited one of their centers yourself?

Andrew Turner

Igor does come across as someone who knows exactly what he's doing. Twenty-five years is a long haul, especially with all the ups and downs Moldova's seen. I've been to the Sfânta Ana centre once myself, helped sort clothes there last winter; the "hands of Christ" line rings true when you're actually in the room with the families.