On Palm Sunday, 13th April 2025, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saints Bega, Mungo, Herbert, and Cuthbert in Keswick—a growing Orthodox parish nestled in the Lake District of northwest England.
Archbishop Nikitas blessed and distributed palm crosses to the faithful, following the age-old custom that marks Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The church, filled beyond capacity, reflected the vibrancy and growth of this beloved community.
Among those who concelebrated with Archbishop Nikitas were the Very Revd Archimandrite of the Ecumenical Throne Antonios Kakalis, parish priest and spiritual guide of the community; the Revd Protopresbyter Christodoulos Fyles; and Archdeacon George Tsourous.
During the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Nikitas elevated Patrick Takla to the rank of Reader, entrusting him with the responsibility of assisting in the liturgical life of the parish and deepening the spiritual life of the community through service and devotion.
At the close of the service, Archbishop Nikitas awarded the Archdiocesan Cross to Presvytera Jenny Musther, in recognition of her faithful and loving support of the parish over many years. Often described as the soul and the mother of the community, Presvytera Jenny has been a quiet but constant source of strength, carrying forward the legacy of her late husband, Fr John Musther, and helping to shape the spirit and stability of the parish.
The community continues to flourish under the pastoral care of Fr Antonios, who builds faithfully upon that legacy. The congregation—diverse in background and united in worship—is known for its congregational singing, prayerful atmosphere, and warm fellowship. With numbers steadily increasing, the faithful of Keswick now face the joyful challenge of outgrowing their church space.
Archbishop Nikitas’s visit offered encouragement, blessing, and a renewed sense of purpose as the community began its journey through Holy Week.
Photo credit: Alexios Gennaris
