The First Bishop of Madagascar, Mr. Nektarios Kellis, was born in 1952 in Malona, Rhodes. His secular name was George. His pious parents, Stergios and Panagiota taught him the Orthodox faith. Their financial difficulties brought them to Australia.

His spiritual father was Father Gerbassios Kabourakis. He initially worked as a banker in Adelaide but, leaving everything behind, travelled to Athens to become a theologian and priest. He returned to Australia and worked avidly in many parishes. He served as a priest in Agia Anna in Chrysi Akti, in St. Panteleimon in Adelaide and in Flinders University. He published two monthly magazines: "Saint Nektarios" in Greek and "Orthodox Messenger" in English.

In July 1994 he arrived in Madagascar. In the capital, Antananarivo, he opened an Orthodox temple that had been closed for 30 years. He learned the local Malagasi language and began his missionary work. At the beginning, he was assisted by the nun of Saint Patapios, Nektaria Paradisi.

In 1997, the Holy Bishopric of Madagascar was founded with a Patriarchal and Synodal Assembly, which includesd the islands of Mauritius, the Comoros, Mayotte and Reunion. Father Nektarios Kellis was elected First Bishop of Madagascar's Holy Diocese.

On 11-9-2004, he was among the 18 victims of the Chinook helicopter, which crashed into the sea near Mount Athos.