The Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy concluded 2024 with an intensive pastoral effort, reflected in the remarkable number of religious services conducted across its 295 parishes. Over the year, the diocese recorded 4,750 baptisms, 167 conversions or re-conversions to Orthodoxy, 1,171 weddings, and 393 funerals.
These figures underscore both the vibrancy of the Romanian Orthodox community in Italy and the essential role of the Church in the lives of believers living far from their homeland.
The data comes from the Diocesan Assembly of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy, held on Tuesday at Centro Mariapoli in Castel Gandolfo, near Rome. The meeting was presided over by Bishop Siluan of Italy, alongside his former assistant bishop and now Archbishop-elect Atanasie of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
New Worship Spaces, Catechesis Centers, and Social Projects
According to the report, the diocese purchased 15 new properties in 2024, intended for worship, catechesis, and social activities, as well as four plots of land where new churches will be built.
Additionally, eight new parishes were established, while 15 priests and 14 deacons were ordained.
Over €1.3 Million Allocated for Social Aid
The Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy continued its extensive social and philanthropic initiatives in 2024, with total aid contributions amounting to €1,340,106.
Through the “Parental Arms” social project, 656 children from Romania, Republic of Moldova, and Italy received assistance totaling €254,600. Meanwhile, 139 elderly individuals benefited from monthly support through the “Staff of Hope” program.
Additionally, the Diocesan Center in Rome provided aid and donations worth €197,010, while various fundraising efforts, including relief funds for disaster victims in Galați and Huși, amounted to €407,360.
Photo: Doxologia.ro
