On 1st December 2024, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided over Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Virgin Mary “Eleousa” in Nottingham.
Joining Archbishop Nikitas were Oeconomos Nicholas Karafillides, Priest-in-Charge, and Presbyter George Tsiappourdhi. Archdeacon Dr George Tsourous also served.
After the Liturgy, the Archbishop elevated four young men to the rank of Readers. This visit also marked the Archbishop’s first since Fr Nicholas assumed his role as Priest-in-Charge. The community is thriving, with a noticeable influx of new faces, many young people, and catechumens expressing an interest in embracing Orthodoxy. The lecterns were full, and the chanting beautifully supported the solemnity of the service.
Afterwards, the congregation gathered for a festive meal in the church hall, sharing traditional savory and sweet dishes in a spirit of fellowship and celebration.
