George Calciu, 80, Orthodox priest

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The Rev. George Calciu, a Romanian Orthodox priest who survived torture and attempted brainwashing in communist prisons, died Nov. 21 at Inova Fairfax Hospital following a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 80.

At the time of his death, Father Calciu was the full-time pastor of Holy Cross Romanian Orthodox Church near Baileys Crossroads in Alexandria.

Born Nov. 23, 1925, in Tulcea, Romania, he completed elementary studies in his hometown, then went on to Bucharest to study at the Faculty of Medicine from 1946 to 1948.

In 1948, communist authorities imprisoned him because he espoused Orthodox Christian morals and a deep religious conviction. The communists subjected him to "re-education," a tactic used by the regime to erase Christianity from the youth of the nation.

Father Calciu remained in prison until 1964, when he was released as a result of a general amnesty.

He returned to study at the Faculty of Literature and Philosophy, where he earned a degree in French and began work on his doctorate. He also studied theology and was ordained into the priesthood on Jan. 30, 1973.

Father Calciu remained vocal in his criticism of the atheistic government and its allies, preaching Christianity to all who would listen, especially the many young people who were drawn to his message.

He taught French and New Testament studies at the Theological Seminary in Bucharest until he was abruptly dismissed in 1978 for speaking out in defense of religious freedom and human rights.

In 1979, he again was arrested by government authorities as a result of his convictions and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. This time Romanian expatriates in the West, including Mircea Eliade and Eugene Ionescu, demanded his release.

An "accidental" death would have suited President Nicolae Ceausescu better. Father Calciu's cellmates told him that they had been specially selected to assassinate him but they instead had come to place their faith in Christ.

International pressure resulted in Father Calciu's release in 1984, and he was compelled to leave the country the next year.

He took up residence in the United States without ceasing to work for the good of the Romanian people, as well as for the spiritual health of Christians in the United States.

Father Calciu participated in religious events attended by President Reagan and the first President Bush, and both times he was recognized and honored in the president's speech.

He was known around the world for his sufferings and commitment to Christ in the face of persecution. He also wrote several books, contributed countless articles and delivered many lectures on the subject over the years.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Adriana; a son, Andrei; and a grandson, Adrian.

Condolences may be sent to the family at Preoteasa Adriana Calciu-Dumitreasa & Family, 6371 Birch Leaf Court, Burke, VA 22015-3528.