News – Soarta

Harmony across the Prut: Church music unites communities in Soroca

“Sing to the Lord in your hearts.” (Ephesians 5:19)
— Apostle Paul

Soroca Municipality hosted an event with a profound spiritual and cultural charge – “Exchange of experience – promotion of religious choral and psaltery music for church singers”,, organizat în cadrul proiectului organized within the CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IAȘI–SOROCA project (code ROMD00157), funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Programme.

For two days 35 de participanți 35 participants – singers of church choirs from Iași, Soroca and Rășcani – created an authentic space for learning, collaboration and communion, based on sacred music and the values of spiritual heritage.

🎼 Learning, practice and inspiration

The program combined theoretical and practical elements, offering participants concrete tools for development:

breathing and vocal emission techniques adapted to liturgical singing;
voice coordination and choir harmonization;
exercises applied to church repertoire;
conducting concepts and working with choral groups;
Byzantine psaltery interpretation and deepening of musical traditions.

Through these activities, participants strengthened their skills and experienced teamwork in a professional and inspirational setting.

✨Artistic Moment and Spiritual Communion Moment artistic și comuniune spirituală

The culmination of the event was the final demonstration concert,where the voices of the participants gave life to a musical dialogue between Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

The performances reflected not only artistic mastery, but also the deeply spiritual dimension of church singing – a form of collective prayer that unites the community

✨ A shared vision for the future

The Soroca event confirms that church music is more than a tradition – it is a universal language of faith and unity.

Through collaboration, dedication and passion, the participants laid the foundation for future joint initiatives, contributing to building a solid cultural and spiritual network between Iași and Soroca..

🌍 Importance of the event

This initiative plays an essential role in the development and consolidation of spiritual and cultural heritage:

asigură ensures the continuity of religious musical traditions;;
development professional skills among church singers;;
creates real bridges between communities and religious institutions;;
contributes to sustainable cross-border cooperation;;
valorizes sacred music as an instrument of identity and social cohesion..

🌱 Impact on communities

Beyond training, the event generates concrete effects in communities:

increases the quality of liturgical services by improving musical interpretation;
involves young people in cultural and spiritual activities;
supports the promotion of intangible heritage;
encourages joint initiatives between parishes and cultural organizations.

Thus, the results do not stop at the level of the participants, but extend to the communities of which they are part.

🌟 Conclusion

The exchange of experiences has demonstrated that when tradition meets professionalism and cooperation, the result is a more united community, more aware of its values and better prepared for the future.

Church music remains a living bridge between people, generations and souls. ✨

Church music is not only artistic expression, but living prayer,, which unites the community and elevates the soul to God. 🎶✨

✨ Closing Thought

“Church singing is the peace of souls, the correction of the mind, and the unity of the faithful in one voice.”
— Saint John Chrysostom

Heritage comes to life in Soroca: cross-border training for the future of cultural tourism

During the period 20-22 Mach, 2026he municipality of Soroca hosted the training session “Reserving, promoting and cultivating heritage sites”,an event dedicated to key people involved in the valorization of cultural and tourist heritage.

The activity was organized by the SOARTA Public Association,within the project „Calea Istoriei și Tradițiilor: Iași–Soroca” (code ROMD00581), co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Program.

🤝 Authentic cooperation and active participation

The event brought together participants from Romania and the Republic of Moldova — site managers, guides, representatives of local authorities, NGOs, cultural institutions, churches, museums, folk craftsmen and students.

The atmosphere was dynamic and collaborative, providing a real framework for exchange of experience and professional development in the field of heritage and tourism.

💡 From ideas to applicable strategies

During the three days, participants addressed essential themes:

modern heritage promotion;
cultural marketing and the use of social media;
storytelling and branding for destinations;
event organization and community involvement.

The practical component was essential, with participants developing concrete promotion plans,, campaigns and creative concepts, adapted to local realities.

Tradition and authenticity

The last day focused on capitalizing on local traditions, through direct interaction with folk craftsmen and discovering living heritage — an essential element for developing authentic tourist experiences.

Importance of the event

This training session has a strategic relevance for the cross-border region, because:

contributes to the professionalization of tourism and culture actors;;
it facilitates the transfer of know-how between Romania and the Republic of Moldova;
it supports the development of a common model for promoting heritage common model for promoting heritage;
it creates the premises for integrated and attractive cultural routes;
it strengthens long-term institutional and community cooperatio
it transforms heritage from a passive resource into an active tool for economic and social development.

In essence, the event directly contributes to the creation of a common cultural identity and to increasing the visibility of the Iași–Soroca region on the cultural tourism map.

🌱 Conclusion

The Soroca training session demonstrates that, through collaboration, skills and a shared vision, cultural heritage can become an essential pillar of sustainable development.

“Heritage unites us – Iași and Soroca, a living trail!” ✨

🌍 132 specialists bring together education and communities across the Prut River in Soroca

During February 20–22, 2026, the municipality of Soroca hosted the second edition of the Romania–Republic of Moldova Cross-Border Experience Exchange, an event that brought together 132 specialists from the fields of education, culture, social assistance, psychology and entrepreneurship.

Organized by the SOARTA Public Association, the event provided a framework of values for professional dialogue, authentic cooperation and the consolidation of sustainable partnerships between the two countries.

Solid partnership, lasting impact

The project is implemented through an active partnership between organizations from Romania and the Republic of Moldova:

“Pious Voivode Stephen the Great and the Holy” Parish (Iași)
“Love and Trust” Association (Iași)
“Love and Trust” Association (Iași)
“Love and Trust” Association (Iași)

Together, these organizations contribute to creating a concrete framework for collaboration and strengthening communities on both banks of the Prut River.

✨ Importance of the event

This exchange of experience has a special significance for the region, because:

creates real bridges of cross-border collaboration,beyond formal frameworks;
supports the transfer of knowledge and good practices between professionals in key areas;
contributes to the alignment of standards and approaches in education and social services;
stimulates joint initiatives and future projects,with direct impact in communities;
reinforces the idea that sustainable development is based on cooperation, trust and active involvement..

In a constantly changing regional context, such initiatives become essential for building more resilient, inclusive and connected communities.

🤝 Real cooperation for education and innovation

The event took place within the project Knowledge Without Borders: Universal Access to Education and Training in Romania-Moldova (code ROMD00493), funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Programme.

The initiative aims to:

increase equitable access to education and training;
develop professional skills;
promote innovation and the exchange of good practices between specialists.

🌟 A space for dialogue and common construction

During the three days, participants exchanged experiences, analyzed good practices and identified innovative solutions for the challenges in their fields of activity.

The event in Soroca reconfirms the fact that investment in people, education and cooperation generates real and sustainable impact,contributing to the harmonious development of the Romania–Republic of Moldova region

🌍 Culture, collaboration and shared vision: Cross-border workshop in Soroca

During the period 23-25 Janury, 2026, the municipality of Soroca has become a true center of cultural dialogue and innovation in tourism, hosting the workshop "Promotion and valorization of material cultural heritage"The event was organized by the SOARTA Public Association, within the project "Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania" (code ROMD00136), co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Program.

🤝 An active learning and experience exchange framework

During three days, over 50 participants – tourism specialists, representatives of cultural institutions, teachers and young people in training – from the Republic of Moldova and Romania worked together in an interactive and applied framework.

The workshop was designed as a dynamic space for:

exchange of good practices between the two countries;
development of heritage promotion skills;
Strengthening cross-border cooperation in the field of culture and tourism.

Participants represented both relevant organizations and institutions, as well as tourist attractions, contributing to a diverse and practical perspective on the topics addressed.

📚 Essential topics for sustainable development

The workshop agenda was structured around key topics for the cultural and tourism sector:

the role of cultural heritage in local economic development;
the concepts and values of sustainable tourism;
the social impact of culture on communities;
modern methods of promoting tourist destinations;
concrete examples of good practices from Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

Particular emphasis was placed on application, with participants having the opportunity to analyze case studies and build ideas for joint initiatives.

🌱 Beyond theory: collaboration and inspiration

The event was not limited to theoretical sessions. The direct interaction between participants generated:

ideas for future partnerships;
relevant exchanges of experience;
a better understanding of the cross-border context.

Also, the involvement of students and teachers in the field of tourism brought an important educational dimension, contributing to the formation of a new generation of professionals connected to current realities.

🏛️ Cultural heritage – a resource for the future

Through this workshop, the organizers reaffirmed the role of cultural heritage as:

• a vector of economic development;;
• a tool for social inclusion;;
• a platform for social innovation..

The activities carried out are part of a broader approach of the project, which also includes circuits of good practices in several regions of the Republic of Moldova and Romania, with the aim of valorizing cultural heritage and stimulating sustainable tourism.

💬 An end with gratitude and openness to the future

The event ended on a note of appreciation and reflection. The organizers sent a message of thanks to all participants for their involvement, emphasizing that:

The authentic exchange of ideas and collaboration transformed this workshop into a real space of inspiration and joint construction.

The Soroca workshop was not just an event, but a a starting point for future initiatives, strengthening bridges between communities, institutions and professionals in the cultural and tourism fields.

📌 Conclusion

Through content, participation and impact, this workshop confirms that cultural heritage is not just a legacy of the past, but a strategic resource for the future..

Such initiatives demonstrate that, through collaboration and a shared vision, culture and tourism can become real engines of sustainable development in the region

Workshop on the promotion and valorization of material cultural heritage, organized in Soroca

During the period 23-25 Janury, 2026, în municipiul Soroca, the workshop was organized with the theme "Promotion and valorization of material cultural heritage", an event dedicated to strengthening professional skills in the field of culture and sustainable tourism.

The activity was carried out within the project "Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania", funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova Program, with reference number ROMD00136

The project is implemented by the SOARTA Public Association, in partnership with the Solidarity and Hope Foundation.

Workshop objective

The workshop aimed to develop the skills of promoting and valorizing material cultural heritage among 56 representatives of tourist attractions from Romania and the Republic of Moldova. By facilitating the exchange of experience and good practices, the event contributed to:

• stimulating joint initiatives to protect and enhance cultural heritage.
• strengthening the role of culture and sustainable tourism in local economic development;
• promoting social inclusion and social innovation;
• raising awareness of the importance of tangible cultural heritage;

Structure and theme of the workshops

The workshops were organized in a well-structured program, with an emphasis on applied and interactive learning, offering participants the opportunity to develop concrete skills to promote the cultural objectives they represent.

1. Fundamentals of promoting tangible cultural heritage

This topic was addressed in three working sessions, focused on:

• introduction and contextualization of material cultural heritage;
• basic principles in promoting cultural tourism;

• analysis of relevant case studies from Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

2. Promotional tools and strategies

The theme included five working sessions, dedicated to:

• techniques for creating attractive content for the general public;
• the use of online and offline promotion platforms;
• identifying funding sources and co-opting sponsors;
• practical workshops and simulations;
• applying knowledge acquired through practical exercises and simulations of promotional campaigns.

Impact of the activity

Through this structure, participants benefited from a framework conducive to learning, practical application and real-time feedback, which contributed to the strengthening of their professional capacities and the sustainable development of the cultural and tourism sector.

The workshop demonstrated that tangible cultural heritage can become a catalyst for economic development, social inclusion and innovation, when promoted strategically and collaboratively, across borders.

Did you know that you can help people in need without spending a single penny? Through the 2% mechanism, you have the opportunity to redirect a small portion of your income tax – money you pay to the state anyway – to a cause that really matters.

It's a gesture simplu, gratuit, but which can bring a real change in the lives of the most vulnerable among us.

SOARTA invites you to donate 2% of your income tax

How can you contribute?

For 24 years,, SOARTA Public Association. is next to:

lonely old people,
children from disadvantaged families,
refugees forced to leave their homes,
people on the brink of poverty.

During the period January 1 – April 30, each employed person submits Income tax return at the Tax Service.
Please choose to redirect 2% of your income tax to SOARTA Public Association..

Don't assume no additional costs
✔️ Only requires a little while
✔️ It is enough to indicate codul fiscal organization's tax code.

Fiscal number NGO SOARTA

This year, your support will be used for support elderly people by providing with wood and coal, so that they can get through the cold season more easily.

🙏 A small gesture for you. A real chance for them.
Thank you for choosing to be part of the good we build together.

SOARTA NGO – year after year it warms the hearts and homes of the elderly

This cold winter has once again brought major challenges for the elderly, especially those who live alone and have limited financial resources. For many of them, heating their homes is not just a matter of comfort, but also of safety, health and dignity.

In this context, SOARTA NGO continues, with the same dedication, a mission that has lasted for over 17 years: supporting vulnerable elderly people during the cold season. Year after year, the organization proves that solidarity and care for the most fragile members of the community can change lives.

This winter, approximately 1,000 elderly people benefited from concrete help for heating their homes, each receiving 400 kg of coal eachThis essential support was made possible through the generosity of the Dutch people și cu suportul constant al Fundației Max Maakt Mogelijk, un partener de încredere care susține de ani buni inițiativele umanitare ale SOARTA ONG.

For the beneficiaries, this aid means more than just heat in the stove. It means peace of mind, reducing the risk of illness, but also the feeling that they are not forgotten. In villages and communities where winter is harsh and pensions are low, this support makes the difference between cold and warmth, between isolation and hope.

Through his constant involvement, SOARTA NGO proves that solidarity is not an occasional gesture, but a long-term commitment. For over 17 years, the organization has been standing by the elderly, transforming humanitarian aid into a true chain of goodness, which warms not only homes, but also the hearts of those who need it most.

Campaign for dissemination of good practice guides

Public Association SOARTA carried out, in the districts Soroca, Drochia și Florești, a broad campaign to disseminate best practice guides, with the objective of improving equal access to inclusive and quality educational services in the field of education, training and lifelong learning.

The events were organized within the framework of the project implementation "Learn, Grow, Be Resilient! Cross-border educational project for young people from Romania and the Republic of Moldova"reference code ROMD00484financed by European Union through Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027.

The activities was attended by teachers and trade union leaders in the field of education, who had the opportunity to analyze and discuss modern educational tools and practices, intended to contribute to the creation of an educational environment inclusive, adapted to the new realities and challenges in the cross-border area.

The best practice guides presented include: recommendations and essential information regarding:

analysis of educational needs and challenges in the cross-border region;
strategies for ensuring accessibility in the physical, informational and communication environment;
educational tools adapted to the specifics of the border region;
using digital technologies to support inclusive online learning;
strategies for developing resilience among students and teachers;
methodologies and tools for managing stress and adapting to changes in the educational environment;
recommendations and action plans for educational institutions and decision-makers;
annexes, checklists and practical forms for schools and teachers.

Participants appreciated the applicative nature of the materials, their relevance for current activity in educational institutions, as well as the importance of cross-border cooperation in developing more accessible, equitable and resilient education systems.

The meetings proved to be extremely useful, facilitating exchange of experience and highlighting the need adopting common practices to improve the quality of education in both regions.

Public Association SOARTA will continue the activities of information, training and capacity building of educational institutions, contributing to the creation of a safe, inclusive and sustainable development-oriented environment for young people in Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

Campaign for dissemination of good practice guides

The SOARTA Public Association organized and carried out in the districts of Soroca, Florești, and Drochia a large campaign to disseminate good practice guides for equal access to inclusive training within the project "Knowledge Without Borders: Universal Access to Education and Training in Romania-Moldova", dedicated to promoting equal access to inclusive lifelong learning services, as well as developing resilience and adaptation strategies to new social, economic and professional challenges in the regions targeted by the project (Romania - Republic of Moldova).

The events are part of the project "Knowledge Without Borders: Universal Access to Education and Training in Romania-Moldova", reference number ROMD00493, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021–2027.

The presented guidelines include recommendations and essential information regarding:

identification and assessment of individual continuing education needs;
the foundations of lifelong learning for social workers, psychologists, teachers, farmers, cultural professionals and other professional categories;
accessing and using online educational resources effectively;
integrating modern technologies into professional activity, including digital platforms, interactive tools and mentoring;
good practices for developing and strengthening professional networks;
strategies for the continuous development of skills and knowledge necessary to adapt to current changes.

Participants appreciated the practical nature of the materials presented and their relevance for everyday activity. The meeting proved to be useful, facilitating the exchange of experience between specialists from different fields and offering new perspectives on promoting inclusive education and lifelong learning in the community.

The SOARTA Public Association will continue its information and training activities within the project, contributing to the consolidation of a cross-border network of professionals capable of responding to the diverse and emerging needs of today's society.

Campaign to disseminate a Guide to Good Practices

SOARTA Public Association. organized and carried out in the districts of Soroca, Florești, Drochia and Râșcani a large campaign to disseminate the guide to good practices in cross-border promotion and social development: valorization of cultural heritage and strengthening sustainable tourism, developed within the project "Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in RMD and RO", reference number ROMD00136, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021–2027.

The event brought together representatives of the local community, cultural actors, tourism promoters and regional development specialists, interested in strengthening cross-border collaboration and capitalizing on cultural heritage as a driver of sustainable development.

The presented guide includes recommendations and essential information regarding:

The social, economic and cultural context of cross-border regions;
Tools for promoting and making cultural heritage accessible;
Ways to collaborate with local communities;
Creating common networks in tourism and developing cross-border partnerships;
Promoting integrated tourist circuits;
Developing cross-border tourism experiences;
Responsible and sustainable tourism practices;
Social innovation and community participation;
Participatory projects oriented towards the valorization of heritage;
Continuous cultural education and strengthening of local identity.

The participants appreciated the relevance of the presented materials, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between communities on both banks of the Prut River to promote common cultural heritage and sustainable economic development.

The meetings proved to be extremely useful, facilitating dialogue between specialists and highlighting the need for an integrated approach to promoting sustainable tourism and social innovation in the cross-border area.

The SOARTA Public Association will continue its activities of information, training and consolidation of cross-border networks, contributing to the development of resilient, connected and future-oriented communities.

Project objectives:
Strengthening the role of culture and sustainable tourism in
economic development, social inclusion and social innovation.
Project description: "CULTURISE: Culture and sustainable tourism for inclusion
social and innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania" promotes cooperation
cross-border cooperation between two NGOs from RO and MD that focus on
promoting cultural heritage and sustainable tourism on both banks of the river
Prut. The targeted areas in Romania are located in the counties of Iași, Botoșani and Vaslui, and in
Republic of Moldova are located in the districts of Orhei, Soroca, Ungheni and the municipality
Cisinau.

Start date 13/03/2025
Completion date: 12/05/2026
Project implementation period: 14 months
Total project budget: 329,779.91 Euro
Neighbourhood CBC project grant: 296,801.91 euros which represents 90% of the budget
total of the project
Own contribution of the project: 32,978.00 euros which represents 10% of the total budget of the
projects.

Campaign to disseminate a Guide to Good Practices

The presented guide includes recommendations and essential information regarding:

The social, economic and cultural context of cross-border regions;
Tools for promoting and making cultural heritage accessible;
Ways to collaborate with local communities;
Creating common networks in tourism and developing cross-border partnerships;
Promoting integrated tourist circuits;
Developing cross-border tourism experiences;
Responsible and sustainable tourism practices;
Social innovation and community participation;
Participatory projects oriented towards the valorization of heritage;
Continuous cultural education and strengthening of local identity.

Solidarity appeal for the Christmas meal ✨

Dear friends,

As in previous years, the Soarta Public Association SOARTA Soarta aims to organize the Christmas gift basket campaign this year.

On the eve of the winter holidays, when homes are filled with light, warmth and the smell of bread, many children and the elderly look at this period with hope, but also with fear that they will not have a warm meal, a gesture of kindness or a moment of true joy.

We believe that the magic of Christmas begins in the hearts of people who choose to share. It doesn't take much to change someone's day: a small donation can mean a smile, a more abundant meal or simply the feeling that they are not alone.

For someone, your support can be the most beautiful gift. And the good given today always returns in light, gratitude and blessings.

If you want to help again – or if you want to join this campaign for the first time – find out that a contribution of just 25 euros o contribuție de doar 25 de euro can bring real joy to a person or a family, providing them with essential products for the Christmas Holidays.

This year we aim to support at least 100 families in northern Moldova::

🌟 20 families of Ukrainian refugees hosted in Soroca.

🌟 25 children who dream of a real holiday;

🌟 35 grandparents who need a sign of care;

🌟 20 vulnerable families in difficulty;

Every contribution counts.
Every outstretched hand brings a ray of light.
Every donation means hope.

Let's make Christmas more beautiful for everyone!

Those who wish to support the Christmas Mass and the activities dedicated to the winter holidays can donate online at
🔗 https://soarta.org/en/donate/

or by bank transfer:

Account holder: SOARTA Public Association.
IDNO: 1017620000203
IBAN: MD43AG000000022514262990
Bank: BC MAIB SA
SWIFT Code: AGRNMD2X

Together we can bring the holiday to where it is missing the most.

We thank from the bottom of our hearts all those who choose to be part of this miracle! 🎄❤️

Launching Conference of the Project “The Path of History and Traditions: Iași – Soroca”

The Association “SOARTA”, in partnership with the Association “Mission and Philanthropy”, organized the Launching Conference of the Project “The Path of History and Traditions: Iași – Soroca”, with reference number ROMD00581, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Programme.

The event marked the beginning of a cross-border approach to valorizing the common cultural heritage, aimed at celebrating, preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Iași–Soroca region. The project aims to strengthen the historical and cultural ties between the two communities, through activities dedicated to the rediscovery of authentic traditions, local crafts and sustainable cultural tourism.

Through this initiative, the partners aim to highlight the common identity of the inhabitants on both banks of the Prut River and to create bridges of collaboration between institutions, cultural organizations and local communities.

The Path of History and Traditions: Iași-Soroca

Partnership leader: CHURCH OF SAINT ATHANASIUS AND CHIRIL Iasi; Romania

Partners:

✓ THE ASSOCIATION "SOARTA" Republic of Moldova

Public Association "Mission and Philanthropy", Republic of Moldova

Project duration: 24 months

The "Path of History and Traditions: Iași -Soroca" project starts from the recognition of the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of the Iași -Soroca region. This initiative is designed to address common challenges and capitalize on opportunities within the wider program area, contributing to the preservation and promotion of cultural identity, encouraging tourism and increasing regional cooperation.

By intertwining culture with sustainable tourism within the project "The Path of History and Traditions: Iași -Soroca", it can become a catalyst for the development economic, social inclusion and social innovation, creating a holistic and enriching experience for both the local community and visitors.

In conclusion, the “History and Traditions Route: Iași -Soroca” is a vital initiative within the program, as it directly addresses the challenges and capitalizes on the opportunities to preserve cultural heritage, stimulate tourism, promote regional collaboration, improve education and stimulate economic development.

Project budget: 1,650,314.26 EURO; Neighborhood CBC 1,485,282.83 EURO; Contribution 165,031.43 EURO

Invitation to Workshops for the Promotion and Valorization of Material Cultural Heritage

Dear representatives of cultural and tourism institutions, dear heritage promoters, professionals and enthusiasts of culture and tourism!

We invite you to participate in a series of workshops dedicated to developing skills in promoting material cultural heritage, organized both in Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

Each workshop will bring together 30 participants – representatives of tourist attractions, cultural professionals and people passionate about preserving and promoting our shared values. In total, 60 participants will have the opportunity to learn, apply and collaborate for a sustainable future of culture and tourism.

What you will gain by participating:

• Developing skills to promote tourist and cultural objectives.
• Access to knowledge and good practices from both countries.
• The possibility of creating joint initiatives to protect and valorize cultural heritage
• Practical activities, simulations and direct feedback from specialists.

Workshop structure:

1. Fundamentals of promoting tangible heritage – introduction, basic principles, case studies.
2. Promotional tools and strategies – content creation techniques, use of online and offline platforms, funding and partnerships, practical exercises and simulated campaigns.

Through this program, we want to contribute to strengthening the role of culture and sustainable tourism in the economic development, social inclusion and innovation of local communities.

📍 Where? România și Republica Moldova
👥 Who? 30 participanți/workshop
🎯 Objective: Valorization of material cultural heritage through innovative and sustainable promotion

Registration and information:
Send your participation request to office@soarta.org
For further details, you can contact us at 069182226

Are you passionate about culture, traditions and tourism? This invitation is for you!

We look forward to seeing you join us in building cultural bridges together and transforming heritage into an engine of development!

Press conference on the occasion of the launch of a new cross-border project Romania – Republic of Moldova

SOARTA Public Association, in partnership with the Religious Community of the Church of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius in the Bujereuca neighborhood, Soroca municipality, announces the start of the implementation of the project "Cultișor: CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IAȘI–SOROCA (REȚEAUA TRANSFRONTALIERĂ DE CULTURĂ IAȘI–SOROCA)" with the reference number ROMD00157, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova Program 2021–2027.

Today, a press conference was held to launch this new cross-border project between Romania and the Republic of Moldova, dedicated to the conservation and valorization of church and cultural heritage. The project targets two particularly valuable heritage monuments: the "Saints Theodore" Church in Iași and the "Great Martyr Dimitrie" Church in Soroca, which will be restored and enhanced through a complex set of interventions and cultural activities.

The main objective of the project is to increase the number of visitors to Iași and Soroca by at least 1500 people in the first year after the project implementation with the aim of strengthening the role of culture, sustainable tourism development, economic development and social inclusion in Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Implementation period: 24 months, 27.05.2025 – 26.05.2027

The total grant of the project is EUR 1,666,000,

Non-reimbursable financing (grant) through the Interreg Program: 1,499,773.09 EURO;

Financial contribution of partners: 166,641.46 Euro

The project applicant is the PARISH OF "ST. THEODORES" from Iași, Romania

Project partners:

The Religious Community of the Parish of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius within the Orthodox Church of Moldova, Soroca, Republic of Moldova

The Public Association "Soarta" - Republic of Moldova

The SOLIDARIATE and SPERANTĂ Foundation from Iași

Within the project, at the "Saints Theodore" Parish in Iași, exclusively restoration works of the iconostasis and church painting will be carried out, while the "Saint Great Martyr Dimitrie" Church in Soroca will benefit from restoration, consolidation and conservation interventions. This clear delimitation ensures an efficient and respectful approach to the specificity of each monument.

In addition to restoration works, the project includes cross-border cultural and educational activities, aimed at valorizing the spiritual and artistic heritage: training in religious music and exchange of experience in musical genres for church choir conductors from Romania and the Republic of Moldova; training in organizing cultural events, mural and wood painting workshops, icon restoration courses, exchange of experience between church choirs, festivals of regional culture and traditions, as well as online promotion campaigns dedicated to the visibility of the restored sites. In total, it is estimated that over 200 participants from both countries will be involved in the workshops and festivals.

This project is funded by the European Union through the Interreg Romania-Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Program.

Training in religious music and exchange of experience in musical genres for church choir conductors from Romania and the Republic of Moldova

The SOARTA Public Association organized, between September 16–17, 2025, in Soroca, an Event on Training in Religious Music and Exchange of Experience in Musical Genres for Church Choir Conductors from Romania and the Republic of Moldova within the CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IASI-SOROCA Project, with reference number ROMD00157, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Program.

Here, in Soroca, over 55 church choir conductors from Romania and different areas of the Republic of Moldova gathered, in a spirit of communion, in which church music became the language of the soul and a bridge between people, communities and traditions. The role of the choir conductor is a noble one – to harmonize not only voices, but also hearts, bringing the light of faith into the lives of those who listen.

As Holy Scripture urges us:"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth." (Psalm 95:1) And this singing is not just sound, but living prayer, as Blessed Augustine beautifully says: "He who sings, prays twice."

These two days of training and exchange of experience (a total of 16 hours) were full of inspiration, rich fruit and the joy of communion through music. It came to life and became an opportunity for communion, knowledge and sharing of cultural and spiritual values.

The SOARTA Public Association selected Trainers for this event, who generously shared their knowledge, experience and inspiration during the training. Their contribution brought inestimable value to the project, through the dedication and professionalism with which they guided the participants, they managed not only to transmit knowledge, but also to cultivate harmony, solidarity and the beauty of communion through music, they sowed the seeds of a lasting collaboration and inspired a generation of conductors to carry forward the choral tradition with respect, passion and excellence.

The participants contributed not only to the smooth running of the project, but also to the strengthening of a lasting bridge between our communities, through the dedication, faith and friendship they put at the service of this cultural and spiritual endeavor! Their presence, enthusiasm, openness and desire to share experiences transformed this event into a true space of communion and mutual learning. Every voice, every question and every moment of involvement added value and beauty to our meeting.

Through everyone's contribution, the CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IASI-SOROCA project, with reference number ROMD00157, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT Romania–Republic of Moldova 2021–2027 Program, has achieved its mission of uniting people, traditions and cultures through the universal language of music.

The SOARTA Public Association is grateful to everyone for the energy and beauty they brought to this event and we wish them to carry forward, in their communities, the spirit of harmony, friendship and collaboration that they experienced together in Soroca.

The topics addressed during this training were:

1. Tradition and innovation in religious choral music from Bessarabia 2. Orthodox liturgical songs from the perspective of the development of vocal culture among amateur church choir singers 3. Carols – icons of great value in the spiritual altar of the Orthodox church 4. The musical-liturgical dimension of the Easter Holidays in the Christian tradition

Trainers involved in the training of conductors: 1. Emilia MORARU, Doctor of Arts, Associate Professor, Master of Arts, Head of the Department of Musical Pedagogy, Academy of Music, Theater and Fine Arts, Chisinau, Moldova 2. Oxana FILIP, Associate Professor, Master of Arts, Conductor of the “Renaissance” Female Chamber Choir, Department of Musical Pedagogy, Academy of Music, Theater and Fine Arts, Chisinau, Moldova 3. Alina PANĂ, Concert Master, Department of Musical Pedagogy, Academy of Music, Theater and Fine Arts, Chisinau, Moldova 4. Diana Maxim-Ciutac, Director of the Măgdăcești School of Arts, Conductor of the “Balada” Mixed Choir and the “Balada Junior” Children’s Choir 5. Angela Usatîi, Music Education Teacher, Choir Conductor, Ion Luca Caragiale Theoretical High School, Orhei, expert-evaluator of the curriculum in music education, primary education, 2025. 6. Ludmila Samarin – teacher of music-theoretical disciplines, artistic director and conductor of the “BELCANTO” Choir; higher teaching degree; member of the International Federation of Choirs “Chorus Inside” and the Union of Musicians of Moldova. 7. Ion Rotari, composer of the work Our Father Tri

The liturgical songs learned and demonstrated at the end of the event: Our Father -composer Ion Rotari Magnification in the highest V. Ciolac "We Praise You" V. Ciolac - It is truly fitting - mixed Mercy of peace - Travina - Japca Monastery Mihail BEREZOVSCHI "Soft Light" "With the body asleep" - Archbishop Nathanael "At the river of Babylon" - in choral arrangement by Mihail Berezovschi Antiphon I and II, Diveevo At Bethlehem up there in the Suceava region V. Ciolac "Long Live the Years"

The event is part of the CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IASI-SOROCA project, with reference number ROMD00157, Funded by the European Union. Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027.

You can follow the event: https://www.facebook.com/SOARTA2002/videos/1070164241864438

https://www.facebook.com/SOARTA2002/videos/1438687093853341 https://www.facebook.com/SOARTA2002/videos/811956057846782

INVITATION

To the conductors of church choirs from the Diocese of Soroca and Drochia

Venerable and dedicated servants of church singing,

We invite you with joy and brotherly love to take part in Training in religious music and exchange of experience organized within the project organized within the CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IAȘI–SOROCA project (ROMD00157).

📍 Location: Soroca
📅 Period: September, 12-13, 2025

The event will bring together church choir conductors from the Republic of Moldova and Romania,offering a unique opportunity to learn from each other, discover new interpretive approaches, and share the beauty of liturgical singing.

The program includes practical workshops, thematic presentations and moments of choral performance, all in a friendly and inspiring setting.

Your participation will bring added value and mastery to this cultural exchange, strengthening the bonds of communion and brotherhood between us.

✅ 30 / 5.000 Benefits for participants:

Free accommodation is provided for participants from outside the Soroca district.

📌 Who can participate:
Church choir conductors – people passionate about religious music, who want to learn, improve their knowledge and share their own experience.

The event is organized by the SOARTA Public Association in collaboration with the Diocese of Soroca and Drochia

📞 Registrations: phone 069182226: email office@soarta.org

We welcome you with open hearts.,
to sing together to the glory of God and the joy of the believers.

We are waiting for you!

Asea Railean,

Executive Director

SOARTA Public Association.

"Learn, Grow, Be Resilient!"

🎉 We are launching the implementation of the project "Learn, Grow, Be Resilient!" - a cross-border educational project dedicated to young people from Romania and the Republic of Moldova!

The goal of the project is to develop life skills, promote resilience and support young people in their educational and personal journey.

This project is implemented by the Love and Trust Association from Iași in partnership with the Soarta Public Association and the Constantin Stere Theoretical High School from Soroca. și Liceul Teoretic Constantin Stere din Soroca.

Activities will include interactive workshops, experience exchanges, mentoring and training in areas essential for personal and professional development.

Project "Learn, Grow, Be Resilient!" is funded by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova 2021-2027 program

Follow us for news and get involved in building a stronger and more solidary future for our young people!

"The Path of History and Traditions: Iași - Soroca"

We are happy to announce the official launch of the project "The Path of History and Traditions: Iași - Soroca", a cross-border initiative aimed at celebrating, preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Iași - Soroca region.

Solid partnership: • Lead Partner: Church of "Saints Athanasius and Cyril", Iași, Romania

Partners: ✓ Public Association "Soarta", Republic of Moldova ✓ Public Association "Mission and Philanthropy", Republic of Moldova

Project duration: 24 months

Total budget: EUR 1,650,314.26

Neighborhood CBC funding: EUR 1,485,282.83

Partners' contribution: EUR 165,031.43

The project starts from the recognition of the historical and cultural value of the cross-border area and proposes common solutions for heritage conservation, sustainable tourism development and strengthening cooperation between communities.

Project objectives:

Promoting common cultural identity

Stimulating cultural tourism in the Iași–Soroca region

Creating economic and social opportunities

Improving education on local heritage

Supporting regional cooperation and social innovatio

By combining cultural values with sustainable tourism, the “Path of History and Traditions: Iași - Soroca” becomes a catalyst for local development, inclusion and solidarity between communities in Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

We invite you to be part of this journey of rediscovery, dialogue and building a common future anchored in tradition!

INVITATION

Project Launch Conference

SOARTA Public Association. announces the start of project implementation “CULTURISE– Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania” ROMD00136, funded by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT Romania - Republic of Moldova 2021-2027 program.

Thus, we have the pleasure of inviting you to take part in the project launch conference!

The event will take place Wednesday, June 11, 2025, 3:00 p.m., inside the Soroca Restaurant in Soroca municipality, Ștefan cel Mare Street 113/1

The project “CULTURISE– Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania” ROMD00136, funded by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT Romania - Republic of Moldova 2021-2027 program, îand proposes to capitalize on sustainable tourism in economic development over 14 months by strengthening the role of cultural heritage in the cross-border area (IS, BT and VS and RMD) thus promoting social inclusion in an innovative social manner through joint interventions in promotional campaigns, cultural events and the development of an innovative cultural product and a cross-border action plan and cross-border cultural and experience maps.

Project applicant is the Public Association "Soarta" - Republic of Moldova.

Project partners: is the "Solidarity and Hope" Foundation – Romania;

Total project budget: €329.779,91

Project implementation period: 14 months

Project start date: March,13, 2025

The project "CULTURISE: – Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania” ROMD00136 will generate a considerable impact at the level of the cross-border region of interest – the counties of Iași, Vaslui and Botoșani in Romania and the districts of Chișinău, Orhei, Soroca and Ungheni in the Republic of Moldova. This estimated impact will manifest itself in several areas of the cultural and material heritage domain through:

stimulating the development of the tourism economic sector by promoting and revitalizing the material cultural heritage in the region;
contributing to increasing the educational level of the public by facilitating knowledge and capturing attention with the help of online platforms that will be created and made available to the public;
improving the skills of staff responsible for the promotion, maintenance and revitalization of cultural heritage areas and sites in the cross-border region, through materials to be disseminated, examples of good practices and through organized events;
stimulating cross-border multidisciplinary cooperation between the two implementation teams, stakeholders and other participants in the events that will be organized both in Romania and in the Republic of Moldova.

For details and confirmation of participation, please contact us by email. office@soarta.org

We are waiting for you!

Asea Railean,

Executive Director

SOARTA Public Association.

INVITAȚIE Conferința de lansare – 136 Download

CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IASI-SOROCA

The SOARTA Public Association has started the implementation of the project "CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IASI-SOROCA” starting on 27.05.2025.

This project represents the continuation of the implementation of the project Preservation and Promotion of Cultural and Historical Heritage in the Iași and Soroca Cross-Border Area implemented in the same partnership and which had as its primary purpose the repair of two churches: Saints Theodore in Iași and the Church of Saint Great Martyr Demetrius in the Bujorăuca neighborhood, Soroca municipality.

The project aims to continue the renovation of these two churches and strengthen the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation through various activities that will take place in Iași and Soroca.

Project priority and specific objective Program priority – Cross-border social development Specific objective – Strengthening the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation.

The project: CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF CULTURE IASI-SOROCA is funded by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova 2021-2027 program.

Project applicant PAROHIA ”SFINTII TEODORI”

Project partners:

Comunitatea Religioasa Parohia Cu Hramul „Sfîntul Mare Mucenic Dimitrie” din Cadrul Bisericii Ortodoxe din Moldova,

Asociația Obșteasca „Soarta”

Fundația SOLIDARITATE și SPERANȚĂ

Spiritual and cultural tourist circuit in Iași – May 16, 2025

Funded by the European Union. Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027

On May 18, 2025, the SOARTA Public Association organized the second Tourist Circuit in Iași, Romania, within the implementation of the project "CULTURE: Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania, "ROMD00136, funded by the European Union. Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027 with a group of teenagers from Soroca.

This circuit benefited the members of the BELCANTO Choir from the "E. Coca" Children's Art School, Soroca municipality, who had the opportunity to spend a special day, full of spiritual and cultural activities.

Throughout the day, participants visited important places of worship, such as Galata Monastery, Cetățuia Monastery, Golia Monastery, Frumoasa Monastery, the Church of Three Hierarchs, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, which have a deep spiritual and historical charge.

The program continued with a visit to "Anastasie Fatu" Botanical Garden - Iași and the imposing Palace of Culture, two of the most representative tourist attractions of Iași.

The evening ended on an artistic note, by participating in the Iași Students' Palace of Culture with the prestigious International Ballet Gala " Ballet Star Gala", an exceptional event that crowned this memorable day, with wonderful fragments from famous ballets such as "Swan Lake", "Le Corsaire ", "Don Quixote", " Paquita ", "Carmen" and "Esmeralda", performed by internationally renowned ballerinas, including Jorge Barani , Cristina Dijmaru , Bogdan Canila and Bianca Badea.

Spiritual and cultural tourist circuit in Iași – May 16, 2025

On May 16, 2025, the SOARTA Public Association organized the first Tourist Circuit in Iași, Romania within the implementation of the project "CULTURE: Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania" ROMD00136,

Funded by the European Union. Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027 with a group of pilgrims from Chisinau, who had the opportunity to spend an enjoyable day, full of spiritual and cultural activities.

During the day, participants visited important places of worship such as the Cetățuia Monastery, the Golia Monastery, the Three Hierarchs Church, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, heritage sites with a special history.

The program continued with a visit to the Grand Palace of Culture, one of the most representative cultural and historical heritage sites of Iași.

The participants had the opportunity to meet with the project partners, the Solidarity and Hope Foundation, at SOCIAL CENTER FOR THE ELDERLY VOVIDENIA, where experiences and good practices in the implementation of projects by the Solidarity and Hope Foundation were shared. The participants, being employees of The Municipal Directorate for the Protection of Children's Rights in Chisinau was interested in the successes of the Solidarity and Hope Foundation in supporting and helping children and their families.

The evening ended on an artistic note. Participants participated in a cultural program at Bolta Rece, which has become a symbol and a place of reference for any Iași resident, regardless of age or profession, since January 17, 1786.

Bolta Rece is known as a simple guesthouse and is part of the city's history through its "connections" with many of the "Junimea" Society members, who ended part of their feasts here, which began in more lavish venues.

Tourist circuits in Romania

SOARTA Public Association organizes free of charge within the implementation of the project "CULTURE: Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania"

One-day tourist tours to heritage and cultural sites in Iași, Romania and its surroundings

Three-day and two-night tourist tours to heritage and cultural sites in Iași, Botoșani, Vaslui counties in Romania

Residents of Soroca, Orhei, Ungheni districts, as well as Chisinau municipality, can benefit from these tourist circuits.

People interested in benefiting from these circuits can contact the project implementation team at

Email: office@soarta.org

Phone 067180300 or 069182226

Knowledge Without Borders: Universal Access to Education and Training in Romania-Moldova

Funded by the European Union. Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027

The project presents a comprehensive plan for professional development and knowledge exchange in Romania (RO) and the Republic of Moldova (MD). It aims to improve skills and address challenges in various fields, such as education, social work, psychology, agriculture, culture, and the arts. Activities include workshops, symposia, campaigns, and specialist networking.

The specific objective of the project is to improve equal access and quality of lifelong learning services in Iași (RO) and the city of Soroca (RMD), with impact in Iași, Vaslui, Botoșani in RO and Florești, Drochia in RMD, for 12 months, through joint interventions in adult education services, to acquire new skills innovatively concerning the new opportunities emerging for both countries, ensured by exchanges of experience and trainings for teachers and joint events for learning participants, including cooperation between stakeholders in the education field.

The project's specific objective will directly contribute to the program result indicator, which consists of 4 organizations cooperating across borders through the development of common educational tools for adults.

The project outlines a comprehensive plan for professional development and knowledge exchange in Romania (RO) and the Republic of Moldova (MD).
It aims to improve skills and address challenges in various fields such as education, social work, psychology, agriculture, culture, and the arts.

Activities include workshops, symposia, campaigns and specialist networks.

Key points of the project include:
• Workshops
• Professional exchange
• Good practice guide
• Dissemination campaigns
• Online campaign services
• Face-to-face promotion campaigns
• A network of specialists created
• Symposia.

CULTURE: Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania

La data de 13 martie 2025 a început implementarea proiectului „CULTURĂ: Cultură și Turism Durabil pentru Incluziune Socială și Inovație în Republica Moldova și România”, implementat în parteneriat cu Fundația Solidaritate și Speranță din Iași, România Finanțat de Uniunea Europeana. Programul Interreg NEXT România-Republica Moldova 2021-2027.

This project, with a total budget of 329,779.91 EURO, of which 296,801.91 EURO is the value of the requested grant, is implemented by Community Association SOARTA (lead beneficiary) and aims to stimulate cross-border cooperation between non-governmental organizations from Romania and the Republic of Moldova and to promote cultural heritage and sustainable tourism. The project will promote sustainable tourism in the counties of Iași, Botoșani, and Vaslui in Romania, as well as in the districts of Chișinău, Orhei, Soroca, and Ungheni in the Republic of Moldova.

Sustainable tourism involves protecting and developing cultural and natural heritage, from art to local gastronomy and preserving biodiversity.

The project's implementation in this area will make a real contribution to a more competitive border economy through cultural heritage activities. The partnership aims to promote the historical heritage and the local culture of Romania and the Republic of Moldova and improve the tourism potential of the cross-border area.

Cultural and religious tourism consumers from RMD and RO (Iași, Vaslui, and Botoșani Counties) will benefit from the opportunities created by EU support. They will also hear about the opportunity to visit a newly restored site, participate in innovative events, and enjoy innovative products. They will soon be able to make new choices regarding how they spend their free time.

More specifically than the general public, 340 cultural tourism and religious tourism consumers, specialists, and other stakeholders from RMD and RO (Iași, Vaslui, and Botoșani Counties) will benefit from increased awareness of EU actions in promoting and preserving tangible heritage and from creating a coherent image of EU support.

Share the joy of the Easter holidays!

For each of us, a place at the table, clean water, and bread, a safe place, a place to hide, a place in God's light as a table companion.
God looks joyfully upon people who do right, creating justice and happiness.
Song 388:1

On Easter, we all await the magic of the Resurrection!

Miracles happen during the holidays!

Community Association SOARTA (meaning FATE) invites you to share this holiday spirit with families who, although they have modest incomes and cannot afford many things, have hearts full of hope and faith. We like to believe that each of us must help and support those in need, the families who can indeed, during this holiday period, not afford certain things. We suggest: Let's help them to prove that there is holiday magic.
Year after year, we managed to gather our strength, and together, we became better at creating beautiful occasions for those born into a world many still do not know.

SOARTA asks for your help and support, especially for those for whom the Easter holidays have lost their significance due to the lack of family or worries due to large families, those who are orphaned or needy children, for old and sick people and Ukrainian refugee families. Let's get go the distance where no one ever reaches them, let's offer them food packages (at least one basket with the most necessary food products according to Easter traditions - bread special for this holiday, eggs, a piece of meat and a piece of cheese).

SOARTA calls upon your generosity and with your support, we can bring light to the homes of the troubled!
Let's do this now, on the feast of Holy Easter!

You, too, can share the joy of the Easter holidays with someone in need by bringing the spirit of the Easter holidays into their homes.

Help us to help others!
Help someone this Easter!

You can donate at https://soarta.org/donate/

Thank you to everyone, both those who have already made a donation, and those who plan to do so, and those who keep us in their thoughts and prayers!
May God reward you tenfold for your kindness!
With peace, love and harmony, Asea Railean.
Executive Director of Community Association SOARTA

Donate 2% of your income tax!

Did you know that you can help people in need without spending a single penny? The 2% mechanism allows you to redirect a small portion of your income tax – money you pay to the state anyway – to a cause that matters to you. It's a simple, free gesture, but one that can make a real difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.

For 23 years, SOARTA has been with those who need it most: lonely elderly, children from disadvantaged families, refugees who left their homes behind, and people on the brink of poverty.

Every employee submits their income tax return to the Tax Service between January 1 and April 31. That is why we ask you to redirect 2% of your tax in favor of Community Association SOARTA. We would like to emphasize again that it does not require any additional expenses; just a little time to submit your tax return and mention SOARTA’s tax code 1017620000203.

This year, your aid will be used to support the elderly with firewood and coal.

The efforts of Community Association SOARTA during the state of emergency in the Republic of Moldova

The state of emergency in Moldova has been in effect for three months now. This means that many Moldovans can no longer heat their homes, and the cost of living has increased to such an extent that they can no longer support themselves. A solution is not in sight for now.

From January 1st, 2025, Russia has cut off gas supplies to Moldova. The government of the Republic of Moldova has issued a decree on a state of emergency to prevent a humanitarian crisis. The measures include a request to all households not to use electricity or gas in the morning and evening. This is an attempt to prevent short circuits and distribute the energy sources that are still available. Municipalities in the Transnistrian region are sometimes automatically cut off from gas and electricity, for up to 5 hours daily.

And it doesn't stop there. Gas and electricity prices are 2.5 times higher than before the loss of Russian gas. Unfortunately, this also means that food prices have increased. In addition, the coal supply, which is used to heat many homes in winter, has been limited because that too came from Russia. Many Moldovans are now finding it even harder to afford these things.

How did Moldova get into this situation? First, it has everything to do with an expiring contract between Ukraine and the Russian gas company Gazprom. Moldova used to receive its gas through Ukraine, but with Ukraine terminating the transit contract, transit to Moldova is no longer possible. Second, Gazprom claims that Moldova has a debt for gas deliveries, which the company claims amounts to hundreds of millions of euros. The Moldovan government, supported by evidence from British and Norwegian accounting firms, has indicated that the figure is less than 10 million.

What can we do now? SOARTA is doing everything it can to support those affected by this dire situation. However, it desperately needs your help. With your support, SOARTA can buy firewood and coal for the winter and prepare food packages, toiletries, and other items. If you would like to contribute to help us pay for these items, please visit our donation page. We would be very grateful! Do you have any other questions or ideas? Please do not hesitate to contact us.

SOARTA Public Association organized the Carol Festival "The Carolers Are Coming!" First Edition

Between 01.12.2023 and 03.12.2023, the Carol Festival "The carolers are coming!" was organized in Soroca with participants from the Republic of Moldova and Romania. The festival was part of the 1HARD/2.1/88 project "Preservation and promotion of cultural and historical heritage in the border area of IASI and SOROCA." Thirty-eight children's and adult choirs from the Republic of Moldova and Romania were registered for this event.

The festival was held with the participation of:

35 choirs
781 members of children's and adult choirs
100 participants from Romania
317 spectators

This project was requested by "Saints Theodore" from Iași in partnership with the Religious Community Parish of the Great Martyr Dimitrie of Soroca, the Solidarity and Hope Foundation from Iași, and Community Association "Soarta". His Holiness John, Bishop of Soroca, blessed the beginning of this festival, and Mr. Grigore Bucătaru, Head of the Soroca Culture and Tourism Directorate and Director of the Soroca Cultural Palace, and Asea Railean, Executive Director of Community Association SOARTA, came with a greeting message.

The project "Conservation and Promotion of Cultural and Historical Heritage in the Iași and Soroca Region" was financially supported by the European Union through the Joint Operational Programme Romania - Republic of Moldova 2014-2020 and the European Neighbourhood Policy Instrument. Within the framework of this project, two churches were renovated on both banks of the Prut River, one of which was in Iași - the Parish of Saints Teodor, and another church in Soroca - the Parish of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius. Their communities carried out various joint activities, pilgrimages, and events to promote and preserve cultural and historical heritage. The choirs of these two churches both participated in a training and an exchange of experience. The total execution period of the project was 30 months.

For the list of choirs participating in the festival, click on the file below.

The choirs that participated in the event

Community Association SOARTA organized a training for church choirs on both
banks of the Prut River

Between 17.11.2023 and 19.11.2023, the event entitled "Religious Choral Music from Moldova on Both Sides of the Prut" took place with the participation of two church choirs from Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Community Association SOARTA organized this training within the framework of the project "Preservation and Promotion of Cultural and Historical Heritage in the Iași and Soroca Cross-Border Area", supported by the European Union and implemented in partnership with the Religious Community Parish of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Soroca, the Solidarity and Hope Foundation and the Parish of Saints Theodore of Iași. The two church choirs involved in the training were: the choir of the Church of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Soroca and the choir of the Church of Saint Theodore of Iași.

The trainers were Mrs. Emilia Moraru - Associate Professor, Doctor of Arts and Master of Arts from Chisinau, and Mrs. Dana Doroșincă - lyric artist, head of the Moldovan Philharmonic Orchestra from Iași, director of the GAVRIIL MUSICESCU International Youth Choral Competition festival (now in its 10th edition) and conductor of the Music for Children Viva Choir of the Love and Trust Association. The event took place in the festive hall of the IPLT Constantin Stere in Soroca. This hall was found to be suitable for the event, because of its possibilities for installing a sound system and for live broadcasting on SOARTA’s Facebook page.

The event began with a speech by the organizer of this training, Executive Director of Community Association SOARTA, Mrs. Asea Railean. She emphasized that this training
would have a vital role in improving the skills of religious music singers from both sides of the Prut River.
The floor was then given to Mrs. Emilia Moraru, who presented the importance of religious choral music.

The practical part of the event was the exchange of experience between the singers of the religious music choir of the "Saint Great Martyr Dimitrie" Church, from the Soroca municipality, and the singers of the religious music choir of the "Saints Theodore" Church in Iași, who exchanged thoughts and good practices, improved their skills in singing religious, ecclesiastical music together and shared their approach to various religious musical styles and techniques for psaltic, Byzantine and authentic church music. At the end of the event, these two choirs sang musical works from the liturgical activity of both churches with eachother.

The results of this training:

20 singers of the Religious Music Choir of the "Saint Great Martyr Demetrius" Church from Soroca and 20 Collaborating Singers of the "Saints Theodore" Church from Iași performed a religious musical concert together.
20 singers of the Religious Music Choir of the "Saint Great Martyr Dimitrie" Church from Soroca and 20 Collaborating Singers of the "Saints Theodore" Church from Iași promoted the restoration, promotion and valorization of heritage.
An exchange of experiences and good practices took place, to improve skills in singing religious and ecclesiastical music and to learn different approaches to religious musical styles and techniques for psalm, Byzantine, and authentic church music.

Below you will find the list of supplies and preparations for this training.

In cadrul treningului a fost asigurat

Knowledge Without Borders: Universal Access to Education and Training in Romania-Moldova

Funded by the European Union. Interreg NEXT Romania-Republic of Moldova Program 2021-2027

Activities include workshops, symposia, campaigns and specialist networks.

CULTURE: Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Social Inclusion and Innovation in the Republic of Moldova and Romania

Sustainable tourism involves protecting and developing cultural and natural heritage, from art to local gastronomy and preserving biodiversity.

Share the joy of the Easter holidays!

On Easter, we all await the magic of the Resurrection!

Miracles happen during the holidays!

SOARTA calls upon your generosity and with your support, we can bring light to the homes of the troubled!
Let's do this now, on the feast of Holy Easter!

You, too, can share the joy of the Easter holidays with someone in need by bringing the spirit of the Easter holidays into their homes.

Help us to help others!
Help someone this Easter!

You can donate at https://soarta.org/donate/

Donate 2% of your income tax!

For 23 years, SOARTA has been with those who need it most: lonely elderly, children from disadvantaged families, refugees who left their homes behind, and people on the brink of poverty.

This year, your aid will be used to support the elderly with firewood and coal.

The efforts of Community Association SOARTA during the state of emergency in the Republic of Moldova

SOARTA Public Association organized the Carol Festival "The Carolers Are Coming!" First Edition

The festival was held with the participation of:

35 choirs
781 members of children's and adult choirs
100 participants from Romania
317 spectators

For the list of choirs participating in the festival, click on the file below.

The choirs that participated in the event

Community Association SOARTA organized a training for church choirs on both
banks of the Prut River

The results of this training:

20 singers of the Religious Music Choir of the "Saint Great Martyr Demetrius" Church from Soroca and 20 Collaborating Singers of the "Saints Theodore" Church from Iași performed a religious musical concert together.
20 singers of the Religious Music Choir of the "Saint Great Martyr Dimitrie" Church from Soroca and 20 Collaborating Singers of the "Saints Theodore" Church from Iași promoted the restoration, promotion and valorization of heritage.
An exchange of experiences and good practices took place, to improve skills in singing religious and ecclesiastical music and to learn different approaches to religious musical styles and techniques for psalm, Byzantine, and authentic church music.

Below you will find the list of supplies and preparations for this training.

In cadrul treningului a fost asigurat