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IPS Antonie's first pastoral meeting with priests from Chisinau: People need to find the Church close to themtranslated

July 17, 2026 · 1 min read

Metropolitan Antonie of Bessarabia had the first pastoral meeting with the priests of the Archdiocese of Chisinau on Thursday. "People need to find the Church close to them: in schools, in hospitals, in social centers, in public institutions, in dialogue with the world of culture and education," His Eminence urged the clergy.

The meeting began with the celebration of the Holy Liturgy in the Parish of "St. Seraphim of Sarov and St. Jer. Spiridon" in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova.

During the service, prayers were offered for peace, for the unity of the Church, for the end of wars and divisions, for those in suffering, as well as for the blessing of all those who serve and profess the Orthodox faith.

People seek peace of mind in the Church The Metropolitan of Bessarabia celebrated the Holy Liturgy together with the priests from Chisinau. Photo credit: Metropolis of Bessarabia Metropolitan Antonie emphasized that the mission of the Church begins with the conversion of one's own heart and continues with the sacrificial service of one's neighbor.

"Every Christian needs to meet a priest who prays, listens and understands his spiritual need. People look for peace in the Church...

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

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Photini Campbell

Yes, people really do need the Church right there in the hospitals and schools, not just on Sundays. That point about a priest who actually prays, listens, and understands hit home — our own parish priest does that after Liturgy and it makes all the difference. Praying for peace and Church unity during the Liturgy was exactly what was needed.

Νίκος Σταθόπουλος

I agree, the presence of the Church in hospitals and schools is very important. Here in Heraklion our priest often goes to the hospital after Mass and talks to the patients, this gives real comfort. The prayer for peace and unity they mentioned in the Mass is something we all need.