The feast of Saint Andrew the Apostle, the First-Called, was celebrated with solemnity at the Cathedral Church dedicated to his name in Birmingham.
On the eve of the feast, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided at Great Vespers, joined by Bishop Maximos of Melitene and clergy from the local area.
During the service, the Blessing of the Loaves (Artoklasia) was offered, and His Eminence delivered a sermon on the spiritual significance of the feast and the calling of the First-Called Apostle. Before the conclusion of the service, His Eminence elevated a young man to the rank of reader.
On the feast day, His Eminence celebrated the Divine Liturgy, joined by His Grace Bishop Maximos, Archimandrite Christodoulos Kokliotis, Priest in charge, and a number of clergy. Following the Blessing of the Loaves, performed by His Grace, His Eminence elevated another reader who will serve at the lectern of the Greek Orthodox Community in Nottingham.
Following both the Vespers and the Divine Liturgy, the hospitable community provided a generous meal for all in attendance. Archbishop Nikitas expressed his gratitude to Bishop Maximos and the community for their warm welcome and outstanding hospitality, while Bishop Maximos shared the joy and appreciation of the faithful for the Archbishop’s pastoral visit.
