The Romanian Orthodox Archdiocese of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has taken a significant step in strengthening its social mission by joining The Welcome Directory, a UK-based interfaith initiative dedicated to supporting the social reintegration of people released from prison.
The Welcome Directory is a charitable organisation that connects former prisoners with welcoming and safe faith communities for those seeking a fresh start. The directory is available both online and in printed form in all prisons and probation centres across the UK, enabling contact to be established even during detention.
The organisation also provides training programmes for volunteers and religious leaders, working in partnership with prison chaplains, probation officers and criminal justice institutions.
The first Romanian Orthodox parish to be listed in The Welcome Directory is the Parish of Saints Peter and Paul and Saint Spyridon in Nottingham and the East Midlands. The inclusion is seen as particularly fitting, as the patron saints of the community are regarded in Orthodox tradition as protectors of prisoners.
A complex accession process
The accession of the Romanian Orthodox Archdiocese of Great Britain and Northern Ireland marks a first for the Orthodox community in the UK. It represents a significant step in supporting Romanians in the diaspora who are facing hardship.
The project was developed over the course of a year by Fr Dan Ghindea, the Romanian parish priest in Nottingham and an Orthodox chaplain serving in several British prisons.
As part of the accession process, both the chaplain and the Archbishop participated in meetings, seminars, and training sessions required for integration into The Welcome Directory network. At present, several Romanian Orthodox priests serve as volunteers or chaplains within the British prison system.
Social engagement
By joining the initiative, the Archdiocese contributes to preventing reoffending. It sends a strong message of hope to individuals who often fear approaching religious communities due to the risk of rejection.
The initiative also highlights the Archdiocese’s willingness to cooperate with British institutions, including His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, prison chaplaincies, and specialist charities, thereby strengthening the Church’s presence in the UK’s social and community spheres, according to Archdiocesan representatives.
Through this step, the Archdiocese becomes an increasingly visible participant in public life, working for the common good and offering a concrete example of how Christian values can be applied in support of those in need.
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