On Sunday, 21 June 2026, the consecration of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Andrew – Torquay marking a historic and joyous occasion in the life of the parish and the Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain. The day was further distinguished by the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Orthodox community in Torquay, making it a doubly significant milestone for the faithful of the region.
Bishop Maximos of Melitene presided at the Orthros, the Service of Consecration, and celebrated the Divine Liturgy which followed. Concelebrating with the Bishop were the Revd Protopresbyter Ignatios Kalogerakis of the Holy Metropolis of Goumenissa, the Revd Fr Trayan Goranov, Priest-in-Charge of the parish, and the Revd Fr Brandon Gallaher serving at the Church of St Anne in Exeter. Serving were the Revd Archdeacon George Tsourous and the Revd Deacon Phillip Scorer.
A large number of faithful gathered from across the region and beyond to participate in this momentous occasion. Joining the celebrations were clergy and faithful from Antiochian, Serbian, Romanian and Russian Orthodox parishes, reflecting the spirit of Orthodox unity and fellowship which characterised the day.
The church stands within the historic area of Tor Mohun, a site associated with Christian worship since the sixth century and linked to the memory of St Petroc. Following centuries of Christian presence and its connection with Torre Abbey from the twelfth century onwards, the building was ultimately preserved in 1984 through the vision and sacrifice of local Orthodox faithful. Particular tribute was paid to Panayiotis Skrivanos, Joachim Pamboris, George Loizides and Andreas Lemonides, whose commitment and generosity laid the foundations for the flourishing parish community that exists today.
Before the dismissal of the Divine Liturgy, Bishop Maximos addressed the faithful and reflected on the profound significance of the consecration of a church. Explaining the rich symbolism of the service, the Bishop spoke of the sanctification and dedication of creation to the worship of God, whereby a building is permanently set apart as a sacred place of prayer, worship, and encounter with the living God.
The Bishop also conveyed the paternal blessings and good wishes of Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain to the clergy and faithful assembled for the occasion.
He expressed sincere gratitude to all those who had laboured for the successful preparation of the consecration, including the clergy, benefactors, chanters, volunteers, and members of the parish community. Special mention was made of the efforts of the first Greek and Cypriot families who established the parish many years ago and whose sacrifices continue to bear fruit.
Particular recognition was given to the long-standing ministry of the Revd Protopresbyter Gregory Palamas, Priest-in-Charge of the Greek Orthodox Community of Plymouth, who for many years travelled regularly to Torquay in order to celebrate the Divine Liturgy and minister to the faithful.
Bishop Maximos also thanked Fr Ignatios Kalogerakis for travelling from Greece to participate in the celebrations and expressed his gratitude to Metropolitan Dimitrios of Goumenissa, Axioupolis and Polykastro for granting the necessary blessing for his participation.
On the evening of Saturday, 20 June, the Festal Vespers of the Consecration was celebrated, followed by the Blessing of the Loaves and a homily delivered by Fr Ignatios Kalogerakis.
During the celebrations, Bishop Maximos also bestowed the office of Confessor upon the Revd Fr Brandon Gallaher. In addition, he elevated Mr George Papnikola and Mr Matthew Thomas White to the office of Reader, recognising their commitment to the life and ministry of the Church.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a festive luncheon was offered to all pilgrims and visitors in the church grounds, bringing to a close a memorable and grace-filled celebration in the life of the parish.
Photographs: Alexios Gennaris
