A festal Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the celebrating Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos and Saint Andrew the Apostle in Birmingham, presided over by Bishop Maximos of Melitene.
Concelebrating were Archimandrite Vissarion Kokliotis; Archimandrite Christodoulos Kokliotis, Dean of the Cathedral; Hieromonk Philotheos Grigoriatis; Protopresbyter Emilianos Epameinondas; and the priests Georgios Pappas, Adam Georgiou and David Johnson.
From early in the morning, crowds of faithful filled the Cathedral to participate in the celebration of the great Feast of the Dormition.
Bishop Maximos delivered the sermon, drawing inspiration from the Apolytikion of the feast and reflecting on the reversal that takes place before the sacred bier of the Theotokos.
The Bishop also spoke about the significance of the presence of the Theotokos in Great Britain, where Greek Orthodox communities have been established for generations.
Recalling the experiences of the first Greek immigrants, he said: “Our fathers and mothers left their homelands and their homes, bringing only a few possessions with them—and always an icon of the Panagia.”
Bishop Maximos further reflected on the silent holiness of the Theotokos, which, despite the fact that very few of her words have been preserved, has been celebrated throughout twenty centuries of Christian hymnography.
“Her humility, patience and faithfulness to the will of God raised the Maiden of Nazareth higher than the heavens,” he emphasised.
Concluding his sermon, Bishop Maximos warmly thanked the clergy who had travelled long distances to participate in the concelebration. He also made particular reference to the ministry of the Cathedral’s Dean, Archimandrite Christodoulos Kokliotis, praying that the Lord would strengthen him in his work for many years.
The Bishop conveyed to the Cathedral’s Dean and congregation the greetings and love of Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain.
Before the dismissal, Bishop Maximos ordained a new Reader.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a festive meal was offered to all those in attendance.
Photos: Nikolas Stylianou
