Detailed information about religious beliefs in Moldova.

Moldova is a country located in Eastern Europe. The majority of Moldova's population embraces the Christian faith. Moldova's official religion is Orthodox Christianity, and the country's largest religious institution is the Moldovan Orthodox Church. The Moldovan Orthodox Church was founded during the War of Independence (1992) and is led by Patriarch Petru Poni. Orthodox Christianity has played an important role in the history and culture of Moldova. The leadership of the Moldovan Orthodox Church plays an influential role through its decisions on religious and social issues in Moldova. Other important religious groups in Moldova include Catholicism, Protestantism and Islam. The Catholic Church is especially located in the northern regions of Moldova. Protestantism also has a small community in the country and is generally found in areas under Western influence. Islam in Moldova is common among the Gagauz Turks in the southern regions of the country. Gagauz Turks, also known as Gagauz, are an ethnic group of Turkish origin. Gagauz Turks have embraced Islam and belong to the Gagauz Muslim Community, led by their own religious leader, the mufti. Other religious groups in Moldova include Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism and other minority religions. The number and population of these religious groups is quite small and they generally belong to people of foreign origin. Religious freedoms are constitutionally protected in Moldova and people can have any religious belief they wish. The activities of religious communities in the country are regulated and supervised by the government. Moldova generally presents a positive image regarding religious tolerance and diversity.