Bishop Vartolomeu Stănescu of Râmnic (1921–1950) was one of the most active hierarchs of the Romanian Orthodox Church in the first half of the 20th century, distinguishing himself through the founding of the ‘Renașterea’ Society, the organisation of parish centres, libraries and priests’ residences, the establishment of clergy credit unions, and the revitalisation of monastic life in Oltenia. His pastoral, missionary and cultural work profoundly transformed the Diocese of Râmnic, providing the clergy and faithful of Oltenia with solid frameworks for religious, social and economic development.