Several clerics who incited interethnic hatred and division among the faithful will be penalized. The cases were documented and will be examined by the church court, stated His Holiness Vladimir, Metropolitan Bishop of Chisinau and All Moldova, IPN reports.

“Over 40 days have passed since the armed conflict started in Ukraine and in the period we humbly prayed for peace and a halt to bloodshed. What we have seen until now is a terrible war that mercilessly cripples not only the body, but also the soul,” says the Metropolitan Bishop’s message.

His Holiness Vladimir noted that since the first days of the war in Ukraine, the Orthodox Church of Moldova has clearly stated its position in favor of peace and against the war. The Orthodox Church of Moldova has stood by the refugees and offered assistance to all those who suffered as a result of the hostilities. So far, thousands of refugees found refuge near churches and monasteries, while the priests, together with the faithful, provide spiritual and material support, giving a real example of evangelical sacrifice.

“Today more than ever, we want peace and harmony to exist between the Russians and Ukrainians as between good neighbors, with respect for each other, with patience towards each other and in love. They should reach a reconciliation and forgive each other!” runs the message.