Romanian church defends controversial cathedral

BUCHAREST, (AP):

The Romanian Orthodox Church has defended a controversial and costly cathedral calling it "a necessity and a symbol" for the nation.

The church responded yesterday to criticism that the "Salvation of the Nation" cathedral, which will cost hundreds of millions of euros, was too extravagant. It will be funded from public and private funds. Interior decoration alone will cost at least €100 million ($142 million).

The church said in a statement that the current seat of the church, built in the 17th century for monks, is too small. It says "The Romanian patriarchy asserts the cathedral is a necessity and a symbol" for Romania.

More than 85 percent of Romania's 22 million are Orthodox Christians. The church is generally respected.