Moldova Church initiates probe into alleged sex scandal at Tabara Monastery

The Moldovan Orthodox Church will thoroughly investigate the circumstances around a video footage showing a clergyman having sex with two boys, in particular to verify the video's authenticity. Vadim Cheibas, spokesman for the Church, has told reporters on Wednesday there are suspicions that the footage might be bogus, Info-Prim Neo reports. Recently aired by a number of TV channels, the footage shows Fr. Vasile Ciobanu, confessor at Tabara Monastery in Orhei, in his cell in the company of two boys. “This is a first-time case in Moldova when a man of the cloth is involved in such a scandal. There are also some doubts about this case. This is why this footage must be thoroughly examined”, stated Vadim Cheibas. Appearing before the Church, Fr. Vasile Ciobanu denied any involvement in the alleged scandal. “The Church will pronounce a decision on this case as soon as possible. If the ecumenical council finds the clergyman guilty, he will be defrocked, meaning deprived of his priestly status”, said Vadim Cheibas, adding that until a judgment is pronounced, the priest's functions will remain suspended.