Petru Păduraru
ÎPS Petru Păduraru, born on October 24, 1946, in Tiganca, Cahul, has served as the Metropolitan of Bessarabia for nearly three decades since his appointment in 1995. He is a prominent figure in the Romanian Orthodox Church and has played a significant role in the religious landscape of Moldova. Prior to his leadership in Bessarabia, he served within the Russian Orthodox Church, gaining extensive pastoral experience in Ukraine. His tenure has been characterized by a commitment to ecclesiastical service and community outreach, reflecting his dedication to the spiritual needs of the Orthodox faithful in the region. Recently, he announced his retirement due to age and health, leading to the appointment of ÎPS Teofan as his successor.
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Recent news mentions
Petru Păduraru stepped down from the leadership of the Metropolitanate amid a scandal.
Astăzi, la Chișinău, are loc Întronizarea noului Mitropolit al Basarabiei – Ziarul de Gardă
Moldova· 2026-07-12
Petru Păduraru's resignation is linked to a sexual scandal that has affected the image of the church.
VIDEO Criză în Mitropolia Basarabiei, după un scandal sexual. „BOR nu știe să gestioneze propria rușine”. Paul Palencsar, jurnalist și teolog din România, la Podcast ZdCeMoldova· 2026-06-20
ÎPS Petru has led the Metropolis of Bessarabia for over three decades.
Schimbare la vârful Mitropoliei Basarabiei: ÎPS Petru s-a retras după 30 de ani. Pe cine a numit locțiitor Patriarhul Daniel
Romania· 2026-05-30