In Moldova, Christmas spirit is conflict and rivalry for parishioners

The head of Moldova's largest Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Vladimir, complained about attacks on his church ahead of Christmas. The Russian-linked church, the Moldova Metropolis, reaffirmed its allegiance to the Russian Orthodox Church despite concerns over its support for the war in Ukraine. It faces competition from the Metropolis of Bessarabia, which reports to the Romanian church and has gained priests from the rival church. Moldova's government, seeking EU membership, sees the Metropolis of Bessarabia as a key element in its drive toward European integration.