Moldovan Orthodox Church nominates archbishop candidates and advances saint canonization

On 20 June 2026 the Synod of the Basarabia Metropolia gathered at the Metropolia’s headquarters in Chişinău, Republic of Moldova. Under the presidency of Metropolitan Teofan, the synod selected two candidates for the post of Archbishop of Chişinău and Metropolitan of Basarabia: Archbishop Antonie of Bălţi and Archbishop Veniamin of Southern Basarabia. The list will be forwarded to the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church for a final secret‑ballot decision.

Separately, on 17 June 2026 the Commission for the Canonization of Saints in Moldova, chaired by Metropolitan Petru of Ungheni and Nisporeni, approved moving the case of Hieromonk Vichentie (Chimitiuc) and his mother Glicheria Chimitiuc forward to the synodal examination for possible canonization.

Both actions reflect ongoing internal processes within the Moldovan Orthodox Church concerning leadership appointments and the recognition of local saints.