On Sunday, 15th December 2024, the Feast Day of St Eleftherios and St Anthia, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided over Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of St Eleftherios in Leyton.
Concelebrating with Archbishop Nikitas was Archimandrite Philotheos Mavrakis, Priest-in-Charge; Archdeacon George Tsourous and Deacon Georgios Ntallas also served.
In his sermon, Archbishop Nikitas reflected on the life of St Eleftherios, highlighting his virtues and steadfast faith in Christ. St Eleftherios, who became a bishop at just 17 years of age, was martyred for his faith alongside his mother, St Anthia, who shared his unwavering commitment to Christ. Archbishop Nikitas encouraged the congregation to emulate their courage, faith, and dedication.
Following the Divine Liturgy, and at the directive of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Archbishop Nikitas performed the investiture of Mr George Solomonides, accountant of the Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain, as Offikialios Archon Eftaksias of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
The newly elevated Archon, who also serves as Acting Chairman of the Parish in Leyton, received the heartfelt congratulations and best wishes of Archbishop Nikitas, the participating clergy, fellow Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and the faithful of the Holy Archdiocese.
The celebration concluded with a festal meal in the Community Hall, where all those present enjoyed fellowship and joy in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
Photo credit: Alexios Gennaris & Kostas Kalyviotis
