On Sunday, 6th October 2024, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided over the Official Opening (Thyranoixia) of the newly refurbished Chapel of the Transfiguration of Christ the Saviour.
The chapel, which had undergone extensive repairs for over a year due to structural issues, welcomed nearly 150 faithful for the Matins and Divine Liturgy, celebrated in English. The V. Rev. Archimandrite Nephon Tsimalis, Protosyncellus, officiated and the Rev. Archdeacon George Tsourous served, assisted by the Revd Deacon Catalin Constandis. The liturgy was sung by the COTY Young Adult Choir, under the direction of Mr. Ilya Tolchenov.
Among those present were Archon Panteli Dimosthenous, Chairman of the Chapel Committee, and the Archdiocesan Trustees: Archons Louis Loizou, Dion Liveras, Anthony Gerolemou, Peter Demetriou, and Anthony Antoniou, along with Mr. Christos Karaolis and Mr. Jason Charalambous. Faithful from across London and beyond filled the chapel, with an average age of 30, marking a vibrant and youthful attendance.
In his homily, Archbishop Nikitas spoke of the Orthodox Church’s universal mission, highlighting its openness to all who seek to follow Christ with goodwill. He expressed particular joy at the youthful presence and extended heartfelt thanks to the benefactors whose generosity made the reconstruction possible: The Styliades Hellenic Foundation, Christos Lazari Foundation, Stakis Family Foundation, Archons Dion Liveras, Tony Gerolemou, Panteli Dimosthenous, and Mr. Andreas Christodoulides, Miss Eleni Constantinou, and Mr. Paul Mouis.
After the services, a celebratory reception was held at Thyateira House, where Mr. Jason Charalambous addressed the Archbishop on behalf of the Trustees and the wider community. He expressed deep gratitude for His Eminence’s leadership and reaffirmed the Trustees’ unwavering support for his ministry.
Photos/Video credit: Alexi Gennaris & Aaron Kwakye
