On Saturday, December 7, 2024, during the Divine Liturgy at the Holy Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Archangel Michael in Golders Green, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain ordained Deacon Dr. Dimitrios Misli to the priesthood.
The ordination took place in an atmosphere of spiritual joy, attended by clergy and faithful, and marked a significant milestone for the parish of Golders Green and the Holy Archdiocese.
Bishop Iakovos of Claudiopolis concelebrated the service, along with Archimandrite Fr. Vissarion Kokliotis, the Cathedral’s chief priest, and Fr. Christodoulos Kokliotis. Dr. Christian Axelberg and Fr. Nikolaos Kokkinos, as well as Archdeacon Dr. George Tsourous, assisted in the ceremony.
Deacon Dimitrios addressed the Archbishop, the clergy, and the community with a speech filled with humility, gratitude, and devotion. He acknowledged the immense honor and responsibility of his vocation and expressed his awe at the trust placed in him. He thanked the Archbishop for his paternal guidance, his spiritual father and mentors for their wisdom, and the parish community for their encouragement and love. He made special mention of his family – his wife, Ioanna, and their children, Ioannis and Constantinos – for their patience, sacrifice, and unwavering support.
With emotion, Fr. Dimitrios spoke of the transformative journey of his life, recognizing his own unworthiness while highlighting the profound joy and blessing of serving Christ. He pledged to serve the Church tirelessly, remaining faithful to his vocation and the trust placed in him. He concluded by asking for everyone’s prayers for the continuation of his ministry under divine guidance.
In his response, the Archbishop offered wise and pastoral advice, urging Fr. Dimitrios to serve with humility, simplicity, and courage. He praised his dedication, virtues, and discernment, emphasizing the critical responsibility of leading the faithful to the truth of Christ. He welcomed him to the clergy of the Archdiocese and encouraged him to be an instrument of divine grace.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the faithful, along with the Church Council and clergy, offered their heartfelt congratulations to the newly ordained priest. The day concluded with a reception in the parish hall to celebrate this important moment for the Archdiocese.
Photos: Jessy Papasavva
