The new Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church was officially installed in office at the Patriarchal Church in Bucharest on SUnday. Some 30 foreign delegations and hundreds of Christians attended the ceremony. Naturally, Romanian President Traian Basescu and PM Calin Popescu Tariceanu were also present at the event.
The ceremony lasted for about 12 hours and, even if the people were not allowed to enter the Patriarchy, they could watch it from two big screens in the courtyard. About 400 police officers were mobilized to keep order and prevent any incidents.
The new Patriarch received the highest state honor from Romanian President Traian Basescu on the occasion. Daniel said he will take the medal as a gratitude sign for the Romanian Church. Moreover, he said he stands for a greater involvement of the Church in the societal issues.
Patriarch Daniel was named as new head of the Romanian Orthodox Church in September 40 days after the death of late Patriarch Teoctist.
