With joyful celebrations the Community of Holy Cross and Archangel Michael kept the feast of the Holy Archangels on the evening of Thursday 7th and the morning of Friday 8th November 2024, the Feast day of the Holy Archangels.
His Grace Raphael of Ilion presided over the panegyric Great Vespers and Matins and celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Holy Cross and Archangel Michael in Golders Green, London.
Among those celebrating with Bishop Raphael was Archimandrite Vissarion Koklioths, Priest in charge, Archimandrite Christodoulos Kokliotis and Oeconomos Christian Akselberg. Archdeacon Dr George Tsourous and Deacon Dimitrios Mislis also served.
At Great Vespers on November 7th, His Grace ordained to the office of Reader Mr Georgios Tsoukalas, Mr Andrew Anthony Flourentzou, Mr Oscar Plamen Rumenov Georgiev and Mr Lyuben Vachkov dedicated servants of the parish who continuously serve in the church.
In his homily following the Divine Liturgy, His Grace offered a reflection on the role of the angelic powers. Drawing from Orthodox tradition, he explained that the angels—God’s messengers—serve as both guardians and intercessors for humanity. The Holy Archangels, such as Michael and Gabriel, lead the angelic hosts in their constant worship of God and protection of His creation. His Grace encouraged the faithful to be inspired by the angels’ example of ceaseless vigilance and devotion, reminding them that the angels work unseen but are ever-present, offering guidance, protection, and strength to all who seek God’s light.
After the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy on Friday 8th November, the Community hosted a generous and delicious festal meal including traditional savoury and sweet dishes in the church hall.
Photo credit: Jessy Papasavva Photography
