Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew delivered a powerful message of esteem, affection and confidence to Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain during his visit to London.
His All-Holiness presided over the Divine Liturgy on Tuesday, September 15, at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Divine Wisdom in Bayswater. The service coincided with the feast day of Saint Niketas the Goth and the name day of Archbishop Nikitas.
During his address, the Ecumenical Patriarch congratulated the Archbishop and expressed his satisfaction with the work being carried out across this important Archdiocese of the Ecumenical Throne.
“We esteem you, we love you, we trust you,” Patriarch Bartholomew declared, publicly reaffirming the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s support for Archbishop Nikitas and his ministry in the United Kingdom.
Earlier, Archbishop Nikitas had welcomed the Ecumenical Patriarch with words of devotion and profound respect.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, His All-Holiness bestowed the ecclesiastical title of Archon Orphanotrophos of the Great Church of Christ upon distinguished orthopaedic surgeon Panagiotis Gikas.
The Ecumenical Patriarch praised the new Archon for his scientific achievements and selfless service to people in need, noting that medical expertise and virtue had remained inseparable throughout his work. Particular reference was made to his provision of medical examinations and health advice free of charge, as well as his dedicated support for members of the clergy of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Later that day, Patriarch Bartholomew blessed the festive luncheon hosted by Archbishop Nikitas. The gathering was attended by leaders of other Churches and Christian denominations, together with representatives of London’s religious communities.
Photographs: Nikos Papachristou
