It has been 22 years since that January 6, 2000, when PS. Anton Coșa, the current bishop of Chisinau, was consecrated bishop by St. John Paul II.

At that time, Bishop Anton had been pastoring the Catholic community in Moldova for many years, sent to this region by Bishop Petru Gerghel, Bishop of Iasi.

The episcopal consecration of Bishop Anton represented a step forward for the Church of Moldova, which would soon be elevated to the rank of Diocese.

Today, Bishop of Chisian celebrates his 22nd year as a bishop in the local church, which saw him as the first bishop, marking the history of a community that in the past had been part of other dioceses.

The clergy, consecrated persons and the faithful communities of Moldova are grateful to PS Anton Coșa for his episcopal service. It was a journey of dedication and service, with difficult times and difficult decisions, reaching today a number of 20 parishes and many pastoral and charitable realities.

"I thank the Lord for everything," said the bishop of Chisinau, "and I think this should be a day of praise and thanksgiving for what the Lord has allowed us to accomplish."