On Saturday, January 11, 2025, the enthronement of Metropolitan Nectarie (Petre) as the first Romanian Bishop of Ireland and Iceland took place at St. Columba’s Church in Dublin, according to the Romanian Church’s news portal *basilica.ro*. The Diocese of Ireland and Iceland was established by a decision of the Holy Synod on February 29, 2024.  

The ceremony was attended by clergy, representatives of embassies and state institutions, and the faithful of the new diocese. Metropolitan Joseph of Western and Southern Europe presented the new bishop with the hierarchical insignia, including the mantle, cross, engolpion, mitre, and handed him the bishop’s staff. As this occurred, the congregation chanted “Axios!” in unison.  

Archbishop Nifon of Târgoviște delivered an official message from Patriarch Daniel of Romania, highlighting the significance of this event for the Romanian Orthodox community in Ireland and Iceland.  

The Patriarch’s message stated:  
“The establishment of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Ireland and Iceland crowns the efforts of the Mother Church in caring for Romanian Orthodox clergy and faithful temporarily or permanently residing in these two European countries.”  

Patriarch Daniel emphasized the importance of Bishop Nectarie’s mission in strengthening Orthodox witness, preserving the ethnic identity of the Romanian community, and fostering inter-Christian dialogue. He underscored the bishop's role, especially during a time when Europe faces spiritual, social, and economic challenges. The Patriarch expressed confidence in Bishop Nectarie’s ability to fulfill his new responsibilities and to strengthen the diocese:  

In his response, Bishop Nectarie expressed gratitude to Patriarch Daniel, the Holy Synod, and the Romanian Orthodox Church for their trust:  
“The Church is a space of hope, light, and communion at all times, in all places, and under all circumstances. The path I begin today is one of mission and selfless dedication,” he remarked.