Dublin, January 14, 2025 – The Romanian Orthodox Church enthroned the first bishop for its newly established Diocese of Ireland and Iceland on Saturday, January 11.
The Divine Liturgy at the St. Columba Church in Dublin was celebrated by His Eminence Metropolitan Joseph of Western and Southern Europe, together with several other Romanian and other hierarchs, reports the Basilica News Agency.
The enthronement of His Grace Bishop Nectarie took place at the end of the Divine Liturgy. About 300 Romanian Orthodox faithful attended the service.
Photo: basilica.ro
In a message read out, His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel emphasized the historic significance of establishing the Diocese of Ireland and Iceland, calling it a joyous event not just for Romanian Orthodox in these two island nations but for the entire Romanian Church. He noted that this diocese represents the culmination of the Mother Church’s efforts to care for Romanian priests and faithful who have settled temporarily or permanently in these countries. He expressed confidence that Bp. Nectarie would serve the Romanian Orthodox community with dedication.
Met. Joseph spoke about the role and importance of bishops in the Church throughout two millennia of Christianity. He emphasized that the bishop’s presence has made it possible for the “Heavenly Food of joy”—Christ himself—to reach all who seek union with Him. He highlighted that the proclamation of the Gospel, appointment of priests, nourishing the people with Christ, and maintaining Church unity are all vital aspects of a bishop’s work.
Bp. Nectarie expressed gratitude to Pat. Daniel and the Holy Synod for choosing him as bishop of the Romanians in Ireland and Iceland. He acknowledged that this obedience brings a new experience of assuming responsibility for the flock, taking on with paternal care a large spiritual family. He emphasized that the Church is a space of hope, light, and communion at all times and places, and that his new path is one of mission, dedication, and continuous service to Jesus Christ.
The Romanian Church’s Trinitas TV reported on the event:
The Diocese of Ireland and Iceland was established on February 29 last year, and Bp. Nectarie, who was consecrated a hierarch in September 2023, was elected by the Synod to head the diocese on October 25. According to official numbers, there are more than 50,000 Romanians in Ireland and approximately 2,800 in Iceland.
