Cuza şi unitatea Bisericii Ortodoxe
Cuza and the unity of the Orthodox Church

Summary/Abstract: The article refers to the reform of the ruler Alexandru Ioan Cuza regarding the secularization of the monastic estates. The Romanian monasteries being dedicated to the holy places had become a widespread process of undermining the national language and neglecting the religious duties of the Moldovans and the Wallachians. The forms of piety and honor towards the memory of the royal or boyar families were now required to be redirected towards the national interest. A quarter of the national budget was sent abroad, causing major damage and deviations from the country’s laws and regulations. It is true that at certain times, according to a common tradition, their abbots had to direct a quarter of the gain towards the two Principalities, but this was usually eluded or disregarded. Of course, the act, although of vital importance for the prosperity of the future state, did not take place without protests and appeals, directed by the Greek abbots to the Porte, but especially to the diplomatic chancelleries of the guarantor powers, Russia, Austria, England, France, which promoted a state of widespread discontent. It was one of the great diplomatic victories of Cuza’s government, which also proved its competence and ability in the way it organized the National Church.

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