The British and Western European Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) has established four new deaneries in response to a significant increase in the number of parishioners in recent years.

This decision was reached during a clergy meeting held in November 2025 in Geneva. The new structure divides the territory into four districts, each led by a dean among the senior clergy. Three of the deaneries will be located on the continent, while one will serve the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The diocese has noted that Orthodox communities in the region have expanded considerably; many parishes have grown, and new missions and churches have emerged in various European countries. Over the past few years, more than ten new parishes have opened, with ongoing efforts to create additional communities.

“We are entering a new stage of development for our diocese,” stated Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe, expressing gratitude to the clergy for their missionary work and contributions to strengthening Orthodox life in Europe and the British Isles.

The London and Western European Diocese of ROCOR encompasses parishes within the Orthodox diaspora in several countries, including France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Switzerland. This diocese was formed within the Russian church émigré community following the 1917 revolution. Throughout its history, it has had its cathedral cities in Paris, Brussels, Geneva, and currently, London. The diocese, as a union of parishes across Western Europe in its present form, has been established since 2019.