MONTENEGRO: September 7, 2021
Metropolitan Mark of Berlin and Germany participates in the enthronement of Metropolitan Joanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral

The enthronement of His Eminence Metropolitan Joanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral took place in the Monastery of the Nativity of the Most-Holy Mother of God in Cetinje. His Eminence Metropolitan Mark of Berlin and Germany of the Russian Church Abroad traveled there for the ceremonies. The rite of enthronement was performed despite the fact that nationalists and extremists caused disorder and blocked roads to the city.

His Holiness Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia and Metropolitan Joanikije were for this reason taken to the monastery in a military helicopter, since traveling by bus would prove impossible. The two hierarchs were surrounded by security forces as they disembarked in a field near the monastery. They were then loudly greeted by worshipers, where the bishops and local clergymen celebrated Divine Liturgy.

Patriarch Porfirije noted that the new primate was ascending the throne once held by St Peter of Cetinje and then by the late Metropolitan Amphilohije.

"You take upon yourself this responsibility in a difficult time. But were you asked when you would be born? That is God's will, and no matter how burdensome tribulations may be, you take upon yourself Divine blessings. We mortals are weak, but you have proven that love makes us powerful. Only in this way can you bring peace to this holy and crucified land. This will be your mission... You are not here to ask who is whom, and of which nationality, you are here to dull knives and build bridges," said the Patriarch as he entrusted the staff to Metropolitan Joanikije.

The new head of the Church of Montenegro and the Littoral thanked His Holiness and the Holy Synod of the Serbian Orthodox Church for electing him to the position. He said that together with the Primate and hierarchs of the Serbian Orthodox Church "who carry in their souls the entirety of universal Orthodoxy, representatives of other Orthodox Churches of God wished to share in our joy but were hindered from arriving in Cetinje." The lofty guests from other Local Orthodox Churches remained to later celebrate Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Resurrection of Christ.

Metropolitan Joanikije (Micovic) is 62 years old. He became the 41st Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Littoral, and the 56th hierarch of the bishopry of St Savva, established on this land 800 years ago.

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