The Social, Cultural and Missionary Philanthropy of the Holy Martyrs Constantin Brâncoveanu and Antim Ivireanul
The Social, Cultural and Missionary Philanthropy of the Holy Martyrs Constantin Brâncoveanu and Antim Ivireanul

Summary/Abstract: The Romanian Orthodox Church has always paid special attention to philanthropic activity. Rulers, hierarchs, monks, priests, and the ordinary faithful have been involved in this essential work. Two of the most beautiful and striking examples of this are the philanthropic activities of two Holy Martyrs: Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu and Metropolitan Antim Ivireanul. Their philanthropic works were many-faceted, i.e. social (and medical), cultural and missionary. In the social realm, the ruler Brâncoveanu gave shoes and clothes to the poor, while also founding and supporting infirmaries. Bishop Antim Ivireanul founded The Settlement where many people of diverse disadvantaged categories were supported. From a cultural perspective, the beautiful collaboration of the two martyrs yielded five printing houses, where approximately 80 titles (of worship, teaching, spiritual uplifting, etc.) were published. They also established Saint Sava Academy as well as other schools, culminating in the introduction of the Romanian language. From a missionary perspective, the two supported Orthodoxy through their foundations, printing houses, various books and donations, both in Transylvania and in the territories under Ottoman rule.

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