On Sunday, 29 March 2026, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided at Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Manchester.
Concelebrating with Archbishop Nikitas were Protopresbyter Theodore Polyviou and Archdeacon George Tsourous.
In his homily, the Archbishop drew together the Gospel reading with the life of St Mary of Egypt, offered to us in the latter weeks of Great Lent as a living icon of repentance. He spoke of her radical turning – from estrangement to communion – and of the quiet, unadorned humility that made space for divine grace. Holiness, he noted, is not the preserve of the learned or the outwardly accomplished, but is born in a heart that is honest, contrite, and open to God. In this way, St Mary stands before the Church not as a distant figure, but as a companion on the Lenten path, reminding us that transformation remains possible for all.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Nikitas elevated Mr Sertzio Kierai to the order of Reader, praying that he may serve the Church with reverence and dedication.
A Doxology was then offered to mark the anniversary of Greek Independence. The Consul General of the Hellenic Republic in Manchester, HE Mr Alexandros Ioannides, was present and delivered the panegyric of the day. The Greek School of the parish also participated, with pupils reciting poems they had prepared for the occasion, adding a fitting note of joy and pride to the celebration.
A festive community meal followed, generously offered by the parish. Archbishop Nikitas spent time with the faithful and, in the customary manner, concluded the gathering with an open discussion, responding to questions and engaging directly with members of the community on matters of pastoral and parish life.
Photo credit: Alexios Gennaris
