On Tuesday, 30 June 2026, Bishop Maximos of Melitene presided at the Orthros and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Twelve Apostles in Hatfield, Greater London.
Concelebrating with Bishop Maximos were the Priest-in-Charge, the Revd Protopresbyter Joseph Paliouras, the Revd Oeconomos Dimitrianos Melekis, the Revd Presbyter Nikodemos Aggeli, and the Revd Archdeacon George Tsourous.
Among those present were the Maria Kriari, Head of the Consular Service of the Embassy of Greece, the Hon. Odysseas Odyseou, Consul General of the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus, Councillor Michal Siewniak, Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield, together with representatives of the local police and civic authorities.
In his homily, Bishop Maximos reflected on the ministry of the Holy Apostles, emphasising that their witness was rooted above all in love; love for Christ and love for one another. He encouraged the faithful to imitate the example of the Apostles by living lives of selfless service, sharing Christ’s love with those around them, and bearing witness to the Gospel through acts of compassion, generosity, and unity.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Bishop Maximos conveyed the paternal blessings and good wishes of Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, praying that the Lord would grant the clergy and faithful good health, peace, spiritual strength, and many blessed years.
The celebrations concluded with a festive reception generously offered by the parish community, providing an opportunity for clergy, faithful, and guests to enjoy fellowship together on the feast of the Holy Apostles.
Photo credit: Alexis Gennaris
