The Romanian Orthodox parish “Saint Macarius the Great” in Leeds has received official approval from local authorities to establish the first Romanian Orthodox cemetery in England.
The cemetery is located at Upper & Lower Wortley Cemetery. It lies near the parish church. Additionally, it includes a section designated for the Romanian community with approximately 200 burial plots.
The initiative began in 2025, when the parish publicly requested the creation of a burial space dedicated to Romanian Orthodox faithful in the area. The request was reviewed and formally approved on February 27, 2026.
“Through this endeavour, the Romanian community in the United Kingdom affirms, in a mature and responsible manner, its presence, its contribution, and the roots it has set down here with discretion, diligence and faith. The cemetery is not merely a place of earthly rest, but also a testimony to continuity and spiritual endurance,” representatives of the Romanian archdiocese in the United Kingdom said.
Administration of the Romanian burial section will remain under the authority of the local council. This is in accordance with regulations governing cemeteries in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, fees related to the concession of burial plots will be handled exclusively by the municipal administration.
Unlike the system used in Romania, burial plots cannot be purchased in advance but only at the time of death. Each plot may be used for up to four members of the same family. Concessions are granted for a period of 50 years, with the possibility of renewal afterward.
Photo: Basilica.ro / Raluca-Emanuela Ene
