On Sunday, 15th September 2024, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided over Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Holy Church of St. Nicholas in Shepherd’s Bush, London, in honor of the Feast of St. Nikitas the Great-Martyr, marking his patronal feast.
Concelebrating with the Archbishop were Metropolitan Iakovos of Ireland, Metropolitan Nikodemos of Nigeria, Bishop Maximos of Melitene, Bishop Raphael of Ilion, and Bishop Iakovos of Claudiopolis. Metropolitan Athanasios of Koloneia was also in attendance.
The clergy serving included Archimandrite Nephon Tsimalis, Protosyncellus, Revd Protopresbyter Michael Kouremetis, and Presbyter George Tsiappourdhi. Archdeacon Dr. George Tsourous and the Revd Deacons Gregory-Palama Florides, Gregory Craveiro, and Georgios Ntallas also served.
MP Bambos Charalambous, Yannis Tsaousis, Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic, and Dr. Kyriacos Kouros, High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, along with members of their diplomatic corps, were in attendance. Several Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and hundreds of faithful filled the church.
Before concluding the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Nikitas performed the 40-day blessing for the newborn child of Deacon Georgios and Evangellia Ntallas, Nikolas, a touching moment for all present.
After the Liturgy, the Metropolitan blessed the Festal Loaves and kollyva in honor of St. Nikitas. A warm reception in the community hall provided an opportunity for fellowship, where the Archbishop received heartfelt name day wishes.
During the meal, Archon Panikos Herodotou delivered a tribute to the Archbishop. Coordinators of the Christian Orthodox Thyateira Youth (COTY), Mr. Kevin Wang and Mr. Aristotle Vainikos, conveyed greetings and flowers on behalf of the Archdiocese’s youth ministry. The students of St. Nicholas Sunday School also extended their well-wishes, representing the community’s spirit and future.
In response, Archbishop Nikitas expressed gratitude for the love and support, commending the congregation for the simplicity, prayerfulness, and humility that made the day’s celebration special. He concluded by asking St. Nikitas to bless and protect everyone present, offering continued prayers for their spiritual prosperity.
Photo credit: Alexios Gennaris
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