Serbian Orthodox Church Enthrones Bishop Nektarije for British-Irish Diocese

OCP News Service – 24/11/2024

London – UK: On November 24, 2024, a historic event took place in the Serbian Orthodox Church as His Eminence Bishop Nektarije (Samardžić) was enthroned as the first Bishop of the newly formed British-Irish Diocese. The ceremony, held at the historic St. Sava Cathedral in London, was presided over by Serbian Patriarch Porfirije.

The establishment of this new diocese signifies the growing spiritual needs of the Serbian Orthodox community in the UK and Ireland. With an estimated 40,000 Orthodox Serbs residing in London alone, the diocese aims to provide enhanced pastoral care and spiritual guidance.

Bishop Nektarije, a seasoned cleric with a strong academic and monastic background, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He has served in various capacities within the Serbian Orthodox Church, including as a parish priest, abbot, and vicar bishop. His commitment to Orthodox tradition and his ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds make him well-suited to lead the British-Irish Diocese.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Nektarije expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to work diligently to strengthen the faith and unity of the Serbian Orthodox community in the UK and Ireland. He emphasized the importance of preserving Orthodox traditions, promoting interfaith dialogue, and fostering a sense of belonging among the faithful.

The enthronement ceremony was attended by a distinguished gathering of hierarchs, clergy, and faithful from around the world. The event was a testament to the global reach of the Serbian Orthodox Church and its enduring legacy.

Archimandrite Nektarije (Samardžić) was consecrated Bishop of Jegar and Vicar of the Serbian Patriarch by Patriarch Porfirije on November 27, 2022, at Belgrade’s Saint Sava Cathedral.

Archimandrite Nektarios (Samardžić) Consecrated as Bishop of Jegar – Vicar of the Serbian Patriarch

Source:
OCP News Service