Romania as Link Between East and West

     Romania has suddenly emerged as a link between East and West. When Pope John Paul II embraced Patriarch Teoctist, it may have marked the end of the long and disgraceful Great Schism. Romania is unique in that it regards itself as an outpost of Latinity. Phlologists argue as to when Latin was introduced and became Romanian, but its Romance grammar, rather than its heavily Slavic vocabulary, is viewed as decisive. When I attended a summer session for foreign cultural leaders, someone asked whether Romanian was really a Romance language.The Romanian chairman simply ruled that it was.
     Hitherto the other Orthodox Churches have rebuffed the Pope. Perhaps they will follow Romania´s example.

Ronald Hilton - 05/11/99