Metropolitan Pachomius Enthroned as Metropolitan of Vidin in Grand Ceremony

OCP News Service – 16/02/2025

Sofia – Bulgaria: The Vidin Diocese formally welcomed its new spiritual leader, Metropolitan Pachomius, in a grand enthronement ceremony held at the “St. Demetrius of Thessaloniki” Cathedral on February 15th. The day was marked by celebrations throughout the diocese, culminating in the solemn installation service.

The enthronement, the central event of the day, followed a series of warm welcomes in villages and towns across the diocese. After jubilant receptions in Sumer and Montana, Metropolitan Pachomius arrived in Vidin to a hero’s welcome. A large procession, including Patriarch Daniel, numerous metropolitans of the Holy Synod, clergy, monastics, members of parliament, mayors, the regional governor, and hundreds of laypeople, escorted the new Metropolitan to the central square.

The significance of the occasion was palpable as the procession made its way to the cathedral. The enthronement itself was a deeply spiritual and symbolic event, marking the official beginning of Metropolitan Pachomius’s leadership of the diocese. Inside the cathedral, the atmosphere was filled with reverence and anticipation.

The solemn vespers service, led by Metropolitan Pachomius, was a highlight of the day. Patriarch Daniel and a host of metropolitans, including Grigory of Veliko Tarnovo, Gabriel of Lovchanski, and others, concelebrated, underscoring the importance of this event within the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. The choir of the Sofia Seminary provided beautiful liturgical music, adding to the solemnity of the occasion.

Following the service, Metropolitan Grigoriy of Vratsa read the Act of Election, formally declaring Pachomius as the Metropolitan of Vidin. Patriarch Daniel then delivered a Patriarchal and Synodal Message to the flock, offering guidance and blessings.

Metropolitan Pachomius’s address following his enthronement was a moment of profound connection with his new diocese. He spoke of his deep desire to lead his flock to salvation, echoing the call of the apostles to be “fishers of men.” He acknowledged the beauty of the land and the strength of its people, expressing his commitment to nurturing the spiritual growth of the community. He pledged to care for all members of his flock, from the youngest to the oldest, and called for their prayers as he embarked on this important ministry.

The enthronement ceremony concluded with blessings and congratulations from the assembled faithful, who wished Metropolitan Pachomius strength and guidance in his new role. The day’s events, centered around the enthronement, marked not just the beginning of a new chapter for the Vidin Diocese, but also a reaffirmation of its faith and its connection to the wider Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

Source:

OCP News Service