Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Canada

present at the consultation regarding

National Strategy for Romanians Abroad 2023 – 2026

Wednesday, November 2, 2022 Department for Romanians Abroad organized an inter-institutional consultation with the Romanian associations about the Draft of National Strategy for Romanians Abroad 2023-2026.

This consultation was attended via zoom on behalf of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Canada by HG Bishop Ioan Casian, Protosycell Maxim Morariu - exarch, Mrs. Carmen Ognean adviser on programs with youth and coordinator of the camps in the province of Ontario and Nun Ana from the diocesan center.

The Department for Romanians Abroad was represented by Mr. Gheorghe-Florin Cârciu - state secretary. Also present were personalities involved in this project, ministers and former ministers and representatives of associations and churches from Europe and Canada.

The innovative thinking and applicability of this strategy that may bear fruit in the future was noted. The deep dimension of the diaspora's relationship with Romania and the need and desire to strengthen the connection of Romanians abroad with institutions and organizations in Romania were emphasized. The strategy acts to preserve, develop and express the ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and religious identity of Romanian communities and organizations, taking into account the frameworks of international legislation and those of the Romanian State.

The Diocese of Canada noted with great joy the priority that this strategy gives to educational programs and suggested the addition of specific scholarship programs for young people of Romanian descent born in Canada.

It was also suggested the development and inclusion of young people from Canada in the camp programs - Discover Romania, the support and partnership with Training Centers for clergy, catechists and Sunday school teachers to promote the Romanian language and culture, as well as the real need for educational materials in electronic format.

This fruitful first meeting organized by the Department of Romanians Abroad, will be followed by another series of discussions with diaspora associations to finalize the document that will be proposed for approval to the authorities of the Romanian Statute to be a guide, orientation and support in the development of policies regarding Romania's relations with the diaspora.

(notes by Carmen Ognean)