“Hear ye, hear ye” rings through the air although there is no bell ringer in sight. Today we explore the captivating story of Biserica Ortodoxă Sfântul Ioan – Moși. This Orthodox church stands proudly on Calea Moșilor. It is close to the bustling Bucur Obor market in Bucharest.
Biserica Sfântul Ioan “Moși” is a testament to faith. It embodies resilience through the ages. The church’s history is a tapestry woven with dedication. It also displays community spirit.
According to the original inscription this church was built in 1807. Two parishioners, the gardener Ioan and the baker Ioan Jimblaru erected it. They were aided by fellow believers of that time. Locals affectionately call it Biserica Sfântul Ioan “Moși”. This sacred place honors two important saints. Saint John the Baptist is celebrated on January 7. Saint Haralambie the Great Martyr is commemorated on February 10.
Though rich in history, Biserica Sfântul Ioan “Moși” surprisingly isn’t a designated historical monument. Its current cross shape dates back to 1868. The first Holy Liturgy after this change was held on March 22, 1870. Over time, the church underwent several renovations. The renovations of 1926 are particularly noteworthy.
After the devastating earthquake of 1940, extensive consolidation work was done in 1942. Two reinforced concrete belts were added around the church. The old oak wood floor of the gallery was replaced with concrete.
The renowned Romanian painter Gheorghe Tătărascu painted the church in the Renaissance style. The original paintings were cleaned repeatedly in 1923, 1942, and 1961. Parishioners helped with preserving its beauty. Between 1998 and 1999 the church’s paintings underwent another cleaning. The ceiling beneath the gallery was painted for the first time. These details are noted in inscriptions near the entrance in the pronaos.
The imperial icons and the patron saint icon on the iconostasis reflect the Renaissance style. Some are adorned with silver casings. Biserica Sfântul Ioan “Moși” houses a parish library. It contains a collection of old books. Some are over two centuries old.
The Romanian writer Camil Petrescu mentions this church in his biography “Balcescu”. He notes that the bells of this church signaled the start of the 1848 revolution in Wallachia.
Between 2008 and 2009, a chapel was built on the north side of the church. It serves as a place to lay the deceased. Funeral services are held here. Later, from 2009 to 2010, a generous family donated liturgical items. They also gave special sound and air conditioning equipment. This was out of love for Saint Haralambie the Great Martyr.
The church received four gilded blessing crosses as liturgical gifts. There was also a censer, a lectern, and an analog for the Holy Gospel. Additional gifts included lamps for the Holy Table and Altar. Furthermore, there was an epitaph with the icon of the Mother of God. Four oil-painted and gilded icons were gifted. These honored Jesus Christ, the Mother of God, and the church’s two patron saints. A hierarchal throne was installed in the nave.
Biserica Sfântul Ioan – Moși stands as a beacon of faith. It is a place where history, art, and community converge. Remember the tale of the gardener and the baker. They laid the foundation for this enduring sanctuary. Their legacy continues to inspire all who pass through these hallowed doors.