On Monday, 10th November 2025, Clergy of the Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain gathered at the Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of St John the Baptist in Essex.
The meeting was convened by Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, together with Their Graces Bishop Maximos of Melitene, Raphael of Ilion and Iakovos of Claudiopolis.
In preparation for forthcoming great feasts, the Synaxis focused on themes central to priestly life and ministry, including Confession and preparation for the Divine Liturgy. The main talk was offered by the Abbot of the Monastery, Archimandrite Dr Peter, who spoke with wisdom and depth on the sacred responsibilities and inner disposition of the priest. Clergy had the opportunity to raise questions and benefit from the spiritual insight and experience of the monastic community.
The day also offered moments of brotherly fellowship, as the attending clergy toured the Monastery grounds, visited the newly consecrated Church of St Sophrony the Athonite with its beautiful iconography, and spent time in conversation with the Archbishop. Many also took the opportunity to engage with and acquire books published by the Fathers of the Monastery, which continue to serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for the faithful.
The Archdiocese extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Abbot and the community of the Monastery for their warm welcome and generous hospitality, which made the gathering especially memorable.
The day concluded in an atmosphere of prayerful reflection and renewal, strengthening the bonds between the clergy and the Monastery that stands as a spiritual beacon for Orthodox Christians in the British Isles.
