We are together again dear all, Members, friends, parishioners, women, men and children who support the work of our Community.
As it was announced earlier, within the celebrations for the thirty five years since the establishment of our Community, the exact date is 7 December 1989, on Sunday 27th October 2024 we had the honour of our Archbishop, his first Pastoral visit to our Parish.
Conducting the Orthros and Holy Liturgy, His Eminence, together with Father Gregory, Oikonomos, and Archdeacon Dr, Georgios. On his arrival he was met by Members of the Ecclesiastical/Community Committee and branches of olive, myrtle and bay, lovingly cultivated in the Church ground and in our own gardens were offered as a gesture of welcoming him to bless his flock in this area.
Honouring the Protector of our Ladies Charity, Saint Demetrios, praying for the health of the parishioners, Artoklasia took place together with the Celebration of the National Day of "OCHI". Holding flags that are representing our Community, Children appeared and with his Community, adding an important presence complementing His Eminence's stentorian voice when he started chanting the Υπερμάχω. Next day, in parallel with "Ochi Day" was the Feast of Ayia Skepi.
It was a moving moment but more emotional sentiments continued when H. E. Ordained Chari Pavlidi, who for a number of years, totally voluntarily, offeres his services as a cantor in our Church, a Reader and proclaimed him Axios (Worthy). More emotions were to follow when Nikos Efthymiou and Niki Beales were to receive the Cross of Thyateira bestowed to them in recognition of their unbroken contribution to the Community since its foundation.
A reception luncheon followed at the adjutant Swinfen Harris Church Hall (our Community's Hall) where the School pupils children and adults accompanied by their teachers and children from the Community, offered a presentation marking the National Day of OCHI. They were warmly applauded by H.E. and all present.
The Ecclesiastical/Community Committee wishes to thank, primarily H. Eminence the Archbishop, Oikonomos Gregorios, Archdeacon Dr, Georgios..
The cantors, Chari Pavlidi, Fadi Assad and Konsatntino Tsona and the assistants in the Iero, Niko, Timotheo and Athanasio
The ladies of the Community who prepared, cooked,served the meals and cleared up afterwards, the gentlemen and the ladies who helped prepare the Church and Church Hall before and afterwards in whatever capacity.
All who worked hard to make this historic visit a success.
Last but not least, the School, our precious School, teachers, pupils, adults/children and parents, the children of the Community.
***
On Wednesday afternoon, 30th of October we were honored with the visit of His Excellency, the Ambassador of Greece, I. Tsaousis. Mr Ambassador was given a tour of our premises, Church, our Church Hall where the School is housed in both buildings and the outside areas and we exchanged views and discussed matters concerning the Greek Orthodox members and parishioners of our Community.
***
On Saturday 2/11/24 we were active again, opening the monthly OUR PLACE event. It was a pleasant morning - mid afternoon get-together with a number of people, friends, members and locals enjoying a selection (on offer) of coffee tea and homemade traditional desserts.
Apart from the Fundraising we endeavour to create a welcoming atmosphere, with schemes matching the colours of the season and we enjoy seeing the popularity of the venue.
Of course there is a Church Service this coming Sunday 10th November at the usual time 9.30 am, then on 24th November, two days before the Feast of St, Stylianos and then on Sunday the 8th of December. one day after the Feast of St. Amvrosios. We will celebrate the two Saints together and the celebration will see the culmination of the thirty five years anniversary of our Community.
The program for the Christmas and New Year Church services will be announced in due course.
Best Wishes to all.
November 2024