Deschiderea oficială
Official opening

Author(s): Metropolitan of Moldova and Bucovina Teofan, Liviu-George Maha, Constantin-Iulian DAMIAN, Ion Vicovan, Benedict Bistrițeanul, Andrei Ionescu, Nicolae Dima
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion, Sociology of Religion, History of Religion, Psychology of Religion
Published by: Editura Doxologia
Keywords: Orthodox Theology; Word and Silence; Spiritual Therapy; Necuvinte (Non-words); Confession; Dumitru Stăniloae Symposium; Digital Communication;
Summary/Abstract: This paper presents the transcript of the opening ceremony and the inaugural public debate of the 11th "Dumitru Stăniloae" International Symposium, organized by the Faculty of Orthodox Theology in Iași in May 2024. The central theme of the event is "Word – Communication – Therapy" (Cuvânt – Comunicare – Terapie). The text begins with opening addresses by academic and ecclesiastical leaders, including Metropolitan Teofan and Rector Liviu-George Maha, who emphasize the healing nature of the Divine Word (Logos) and the role of theology in addressing human suffering through spiritual communication. The core of the document is a public debate titled "The Non-words: Expression & Approximation" (Necuvintele. Exprimare & Aproximare), moderated by Fr. Nicolae Dima, featuring Bishop Benedict Bistrițeanul and Fr. Răzvan Andrei Ionescu. The dialogue explores the theological tension between speech and silence (apophaticism), heavily referencing the poetic concept of "necuvinte" (non-words) by Nichita Stănescu. The speakers discuss the limitations of human language in describing God, the therapeutic power of silence versus the "noise" of social media, and the sacrament of Confession as a space where the "healing word" is manifested. The debate concludes that authentic communication requires a synergy of silence and speech, where the word is not merely information but a vehicle for divine presence and healing.

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