With deep spiritual joy, His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa, His Holiness Theodore II, on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, performed the monastic tonsure of novice Irenaeus at the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of Saint Sava the Sanctified in Alexandria.
The sacred service took place in a prayerful atmosphere before the conclusion of the Presanctified Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Metropolitan Germanos of Tamiatheos.
The young monk, originally from Iringa, Tanzania, and a graduate of the Patriarchal School of Saint Athanasius, dedicated his life fully to Christ, entering the blessed path of monasticism.
His Beatitude named him Irenaeus in honor of Saint Irenaeus and the late Metropolitan Irenaeus of Kissamos and Selino, recognizing his great missionary legacy and love for Africa.
In his address, His Beatitude emphasized the vital role of raising indigenous workers of the Gospel in Africa, encouraging the new monk to remain humble, obedient, and steadfast in his calling.
Hierarchs of the Patriarchate were present, joining in prayer for this sacred moment.
