On Sunday, 16 June 2024, the Sunday of the Holy and God-bearing Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council, Bishop Maximos of Melitene visited the church dedicated to them in Shrewsbury. He presided over the Matins service and celebrated the Divine Liturgy.
During his sermon, His Grace conveyed the best wishes of His Eminence, Archbishop Nikitas, and honoured Mr Christopher David Lewis, a long-serving Reader and benefactor of the English-speaking community of Shrewsbury. Mr Lewis was presented with the Archdiocesan Cross Medal for his unwavering commitment and devoted service.
Addressing Mr Lewis, Bishop Maximos said, “Your unwavering commitment and devoted service to our blessed community here in Shrewsbury, as well as your steadfast dedication to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain, are an example to be emulated and a testament to your unpretentiousness.”
The Orthodox Community of the 318 Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council in Shrewsbury has more than doubled in the past two years, significantly contributing to charitable work in the wider region of Midlands.
After the Divine Liturgy, a reception for the entire congregation was held in the church courtyard.
