On Saturday 13th June 2026, Christian Orthodox Thyateira Youth (COTY) led a pilgrimage to the Holy Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of St John the Baptist in Essex followed by a recreational trip to Southend-on-sea.
With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, fifty young pilgrims from a variety of communities across London, set off from the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Wood Green, travelling by coach to the monastery founded by the contemporary Saint, Sophrony the Athonite. They enjoyed an insightful tour of the monastic community, followed by an edifying and spiritually nourishing talk by the Holy Abbot, the Very Reverend Archimandrite Peter, who also answered several questions, offering direction and advice to young Orthodox Christians.
Following lunch in the old refectory, participants gathered in prayer within the crypt of St Sophrony, honouring the Saint and seeking his intercessions as they departed for the coastal city of Southend-on-sea. There, the diverse group shared time together, fellowship, games of bowling, traditional British Fish and Chips and time by the sea.
Photo Credits: Christina Charalambous
