The weekend of 27–28 September 2025, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain made a pastoral visit to the vibrant Orthodox community of Archangel Michael and St Piran in Cornwall.
On Saturday evening, Archbishop Nikitas presided at Great Vespers, followed by a lively and heartfelt Q&A session with the youth of the parish, who shared their reflections and questions on faith and Christian life in today’s world.
On Sunday morning, Archbishop Nikitas presided at Matins and celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, concelebrating with Oeconomos Nikitas Lantsbery and Archdeacon George Tsourous. Presbyter Raphael Hawkes also joined prayerfully too.
Preaching on the Epistle reading of the day (2 Corinthians 6:16–7:1), the Archbishop spoke about the sacred calling of every Christian to live as “the temple of the living God,” set apart from the ways of the world. He reminded the faithful that holiness begins with the cleansing of both body and spirit and is perfected in the fear and love of God.
At the end of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Nikitas elevated Fr Nikitas to the rank of Protopresbyter in recognition of his years of devoted ministry to the parish and the growing Orthodox community in Falmouth. Archbishop Nikitas expressed his deep gratitude on behalf of the entire Archdiocese for Fr Nikitas’ faithful service and pastoral care.
The Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain rejoices in the spiritual vitality of this parish, where many young people are embracing the Orthodox faith, and the average age of parishioners is between 25 and 30.
The visit concluded with a joyful reception prepared by the community in Falmouth; a celebration of unity, faith, and gratitude, marking yet another blessed chapter in the life of this flourishing Cornish parish.
