Romanian Patriarchate warns of negative social and moral consequences of gambling

This message applies clearly to all countries, as the scourge of gambling is more and more present in many lives, easily destroying them.

The Romanian Patriarchate expresses its deep concern regarding the growing scale and impact of the gambling phenomenon in Romanian society, a phenomenon that affects not only personal life but also the balance of families and communities. Gambling practices promote the illusion of quick and effortless winning, cultivating a mentality that can lead to addiction, as well as the loss of inner freedom and moral values. Gambling addiction is not just a behavioral problem, but a complex disorder, characterized by neuroplastic remodeling and dysfunctions of brain systems, similar to those described in substance addictions.

The Romanian Patriarchate calls for responsibility on the part of all the factors involved – individuals, families, institutions, and public authorities – in order to limit the expansion of this phenomenon, protect human dignity, and encourage the common good. We consider it necessary to intensify the promotion of policies and measures that discourage gambling addiction and provide concrete support to both those affected and the families to which they belong.

The pastoral experience of the Romanian Orthodox Church highlights numerous situations in which gambling addiction has generated serious financial imbalances, family tensions, profound suffering and social marginalization, even cases of suicide, particularly affecting vulnerable people, including young people. In this context, it is worth emphasizing the need to be aware of the real risks associated with these practices and their long-term consequences.

At the same time, the Romanian Patriarchate reaffirms its pastoral commitment to supporting people in difficulty, through spiritual counseling, guidance, and community solidarity, urging the rediscovery of the values ​​of a balanced life and the prevention of addictions.

In the current context, the Romanian Patriarchate reiterates the importance of cultivating an existence based on faith, work, and helping others, as perennial foundations of a healthy and balanced society.

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