The Romanian Orthodox Bishop of Italy has sent a message of congratulations to the newly elected Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV, wishing him a fruitful apostolic ministry.
“We pray that you may receive from God the strength of a lion and the courage of your predecessors,” said Bishop Siluan to the new Pope, referring to the name His Holiness chose.
In his message, Bishop Siluan, along with the faithful of the Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy, extended best wishes for “a good ministry and a fruitful apostolate.”
“May the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, the pillars and foundation of the Church of Rome, accompany you in this burdensome yet joy-filled apostolic service,” he added.
Romanian Orthodox faithful in the diaspora maintain close relationships with other Christian denominations. In Italy, most Romanian Orthodox communities worship in spaces generously offered by the Roman Catholic Church. Over 300 such communities benefit from this support throughout the Italian peninsula.
Photo: Diocese of Italy
