Archbishop Elpidophoros hopes that Patriarch of Romania will recognize OCU

According to Orthodoxtimes, the minister represented Romania at the UN in the absence of Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, who remained in Bucharest during the critical elections in neighboring Moldova.

Archbishop Elpidophoros spoke about the historic ties between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Romanian Orthodox Church. He congratulated the Romanian minister on the 100th anniversary of the Romanian Orthodox Church and recalled that, like Ukraine, Romania received its autocephaly from the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1885, the Mother Church. According to him, this decision has been vital for the development of the Romanian Church over the past century.

“The Ecumenical Patriarchate never regretted this decision,” the archbishop noted. “The Church of Romania is today among the most progressive and successful churches in the Orthodox world, and its journey since being granted independence stands as an example to others.”

Archbishop Elpidophoros expressed the hope that the Patriarch of Romania would eventually recognize the autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine, calling such a step a natural confirmation of the Romanian Church’s long tradition of independence and leadership in the region.

For her part, Foreign Minister Țoiu emphasized the role of the Church as a bridge for understanding and unity at a time when there are forces seeking to sow discord. She described the Romanian Orthodox Church in the United States as a center of community life — a place where families gather, children learn their native language, and culture and faith are passed on to new generations.

She emphasized that religious leaders can play a crucial role in strengthening resilience against those who seek to undermine democracy today.

Archbishop Elpidophoros emphasized that the Romanian Church is a living testament to the fusion of Eastern tradition and Western worldview, underscoring its rich cultural heritage and the significant role of the diaspora.

In conclusion, Archbishop Elpidophoros congratulated Minister Țoiu for her successful representation of Romania at the UN and wished her well in her demanding mission.