On Saturday 22nd June 2024, Saturday of the Souls, Deacon Alexander Gaman was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, St Leonard on Sea, Hastings.
Bishop Maximos of Melitene presided over Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy joined by the Revd Protopresbyter Iulian Petri Tohanenan (Patriarchate of Romania), Oeconomos Ierotheos Georghiou, Priest-in-charge, and Revd Presbyter Andreas Minic. Archdeacon George Tsourous and Revd Deacons Dimitrios Mamouchas and Charalambos Clark also served.
Print to his ordination, Deacon Alexander delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing both humility and gratitude. He reflected on the sense of helplessness he felt approaching Holy Priesthood, yet found hope in the words of Jesus to St. Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Embracing this message, he began his journey with humility, acknowledging the profound humility of God, who became man for the salvation of mankind. Fr Alexander emphasized that his calling was not by his own choice but by Christ’s, highlighting the sacrificial love of Jesus as the ultimate example of service. He noted that the priesthood is a yoke to bear with confidence, as it is a “good and light burden,” lighter than the burden of sin.
Fr Alexander extended his gratitude to Archbishop Nikitas for his blessings and support, and to Bishop Maximos for presiding over the ordination. He also thanked numerous clergy members for their presence and guidance, including Archdeacon George, who supported him during his diaconate. His appreciation extended to Father Ierotheos, his spiritual Father, and to the community members for their preparations and presence. He expressed deep thanks to his parents and his wife, Presbitera Claudia, and their children, for their unwavering support and love. Fr Alexander concluded his speech with a prayer for peace and spiritual joy for all, invoking the blessings of the resurrected Christ.
Bishop Maximos responded to Fr Alexander’s heartfelt speech by encouraging him to remain steadfast in his priesthood. He urged Fr Alexander to serve the people of God with unwavering commitment, love, and humility, following the example of Christ’s sacrificial love. Bishop Maximos expressed his confidence that the grace of the Lord would guide and sustain Fr Alexander in his new role, supported by his family and the whole community in Hastings.
The close-knit community in Hastings orchestrated a splendid reception in celebration of Fr. Alexander’s ordination. The delicious meal, prepared by Presbytera Claudia and a dedicated team of volunteers, added an extra layer of warmth and flavor to the gathering. This event provided a wonderful opportunity for guests from across the UK and members of the Hastings community to come together and celebrate this joyous occasion.
Photo Credit: Sotiris Georghiou
