Basarabia Metropolis appoints two candidates for Archbishop of Chisinau

On 20 June 2026 the synod of the Basarabia Metropolis convened in Chişinău and, after an open consultation followed by a secret ballot, presented two clerics as candidates for the vacant offices of Archbishop of Chişinău and Metropolitan of Basarabia.

The candidates are Bishop Antonie of Bălţi and Bishop Veniamin of Southern Basarabia. No third name was proposed; the list may be forwarded to the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church for final election.

The vacancy arose after Metropolitan Petru retired after nearly 31 years in office, citing age, health and the good of the Church. Public rumours of a sexual‑content video involving him have been noted; the Metropolis said the material is being examined before any comment.