Hierarchs of the Macedonian and Serbian Orthodox Churches have consecrated a new iconostasis at the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, marking a significant milestone for the Macedonian Orthodox community in France.

The ceremony took place on April 26, coinciding with the Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women, according to the European Diocese of the Macedonian Orthodox Church. The Divine Liturgy was led by Stefan, who was joined by other Macedonian hierarchs and Justin.

Diplomatic representatives and a large number of parishioners attended the service, reflecting the importance of the occasion for the local Orthodox faithful.

The consecration of the iconostasis — a central feature in Orthodox churches separating the altar from the nave — was performed at the end of the liturgy. Church officials described the newly installed structure as both an aesthetic addition and a spiritual focal point that enhances the prayerful atmosphere of the храм.

The event also highlighted the parish’s challenging journey to establish its place of worship. The building currently housing the church was not originally designed as a religious structure and required nearly a year of major renovations. During the process, workers discovered serious structural issues, including the absence of a proper foundation, which caused the floor to sag.

To address the problem, the existing flooring had to be completely dismantled and a new foundation constructed — a complex and costly phase of the reconstruction. Additional work included reinforcing the base, pouring a new floor, creating the altar space, and installing the framework for the iconostasis.

Despite these difficulties, the project was successfully completed, culminating in the consecration ceremony that now stands as a symbol of perseverance and faith for the Macedonian Orthodox community in Paris.