A new Romanian Orthodox parish is being formed in Kilkenny, Ireland. The parish will be dedicated to Saint Arsenius (Boca) of Prislop and Saint Cainnech of Aghaboe (Kenneth), one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland.
Bishop Nectarie of Ireland and Iceland celebrated the Divine Liturgy on December 7 with the Romanian community in Kilkenny.
Before the Divine Liturgy, the bishop also officiated the Akathist Hymn to Saint Philothea of Arges, commemorated on December 7.
In his address, Bishop Nectarie spoke about the Gospel account of the healing of the bent woman and the hypocrisy of the ruler of the synagogue, noting that such attitudes persist today, as people seek reasons not to help those who are suffering.
He also recalled the life and virtues of Saint Philothea of Curtea de Argeș, as well as the spiritual legacy of Saint Ambrose of Milan.
The day concluded with a short concert of Christmas carols organised by a group from Nepsis Ireland, the Romanian Orthodox youth association.
Photo: Facebook / Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Ireland and Iceland
