BRITISH AND WESTERN EUROPEAN DIOCESE: 12 March, 2026
The Russian Church Abroad’s Diocese of the United Kingdom and Western Europe Reports a Significant Increase in Parishioners

The British and Western European Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia has recorded a substantial increase in the number of parishioners. In connection with this, the ruling hierarch, His Grace Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe, announced on March 7, 2026, the decision to establish four deaneries, the diocesan website reports.

The reorganization of the structure, "with the aim of facilitating pastoral care and management of the rapidly growing diocese," was approved following a clergy meeting held in November 2025 in Geneva. According to the new model, the territory of the diocese will be divided into four districts, each headed by a dean elected from among the senior clergy. Three deaneries will be located in continental Europe, and one more in Great Britain and Ireland.

As noted by the diocese, Orthodox Christian communities in the region have significantly expanded in recent years. More than ten new parishes and churches have opened in many European countries, and missionary work is also being conducted to create new communities.

"We are entering a new stage of our development," said Bishop Irinei, expressing gratitude to the clergy for their missionary work and efforts to strengthen Orthodox life in the British Isles and in Europe.

orthodox-europe.org