Today's ceremony featured Catholic Church dignitaries, leaders of other faiths, foreign diplomats and local officials.

Two months ago he was appointed to the post by Pope Francis, completing his transition from the Murska Sobota Diocese, where he served as bishop from 2009.

Štumpf succeeded Jurij Bizjak who had to submit his resignation on turning 75 two and a half years ago in accordance with canon law.

Štumpf saying this is a new environment for him, which he will have to get to know.

Štumpf said that he will continue working on interfaith dialogue, families, youths and "other groups who are looking for ways how to live with their faith in this era'', as quoted by the STA.