On Thursday, 15th August 2024, Archbishop Nikitas presided over Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Wood Green. He was joined by His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Ireland and His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Claudiopolis. Among those concelebrating were the V. Revd Archimandrite Nephon Tsimallis, Protosyngellus, the Revd Protopresbyter Panayiotis Dik, the Revd Oeconomos Nikolaos Kokkinos and the Revd Presbyter Petros Georgiou. Archdeacon Dr George Tsourous, Deacon Gregory Florides and Deacon Georgios Ntallas also served.
Distinguished guests in attendance included H.E the Hon. Mrs Iphigenia Kanara, Deputy Head of Mission and H.E. the Hon. Mr Christos Gkoulas, Head of the Consular Section, from the Embassy of the Hellenic Republic, Ms Melivia Demetriou, Political Counsellor of the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus, and Pambos Charalambou, MP for Enfield, alongside Counsellor Eddie Griffith, former Mayor of Haringey and Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate The Archbishop delivered a sermon emphasising the importance of the Dormition of the Mother of God, who embraced God through her unwavering obedience, urging the great number of faithful in attendance to follow the example of the Theotokos in their lives.
At the conclusion of the Liturgy, His Eminence bestowed the Offikion of Oeconomos upon the Revd Presbyter Petros Georgiou, in recognition of his dedicated service, unwavering commitment to the Church, and pastoral care within the community.
Following the end of the Liturgy, His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Claudiopolis extended a warm welcome to His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas and also His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of the newly-established Metropolis of Ireland who visited London and expressed gratitude to all who labour for the good of the Church and the community in Wood Green.
The Community at Wood Green celebrated its annual Greek festival, introducing and celebrating with the local residents Hellenic culture, food, and music. Various stands were set up, offering traditional Greek Cypriot delicacies and products from Greece, Cyprus, and other Orthodox countries, providing an opportunity for attendees to interact and enjoy fellowship.
Photo courtesy: Alexios Gennaris