On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the ordination of Bishop Paisios of Diokleia took place at the Cathedral of Saint Sava in Belgrade. The Divine Liturgy was led by the Patriarch of Serbia, joined by high-ranking clergy from various Orthodox Churches, including representatives from the Patriarchates of Moscow and Bulgaria, the Church of Greece, and the Archdiocese of Ohrid.
The ceremony was attended by ministers from both the Serbian and Montenegrin governments, along with a large gathering of clergy, monks, nuns, and devoted believers. During the ordination, the Metropolitan of Montenegro spoke about the ongoing presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church, drawing a connection between the events of Pentecost and the sacrament of episcopal ordination. He emphasized that the Holy Spirit’s work is not confined to the past but is an active and continuous reality within the Church.
The Patriarch of Serbia delivered a homily to the newly ordained Bishop Paisios, underscoring the significance and heavy responsibilities that come with the episcopal office. In a symbolic moment, the Patriarch presented the new bishop with the pastoral staff, officially entrusting him with his new role. The service concluded with the congregation joyously chanting “Axios!” (“He is worthy!”) in affirmation of Bishop Paisios’ ordination.
Source and photos: Patriarchate of Serbia