On Sunday, 8th January 2023, the 58th annual Blessing of the Seas took place in Margate. This long standing tradition of over 50 years had over 30 Mayors in attendance, Lord Deputy Lieutenant, Sir Roger Gale, the Hon. Heather Keen, Mayor of Margate, The Hon. Christos Goulas, Consul of the Hellenic Republic, the Hon. Odyeas Odyseou, Consul General of the Republic of Cyprus, and Mr. Christos Karaolis, President of the UK Cypriot Federation among other distinguished civil leaders and officials.
His Eminence Metropolitan Athanasius of Koloneia celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Holy Church of the Archangel Michael. And blessed the water. The V. Rev. Archimandrite Nephon Tsimalis, Chancellor, the V. Rev. Archimandrite Vissarion Kokliotis, Rev. Presbyter Adam and the Rev. Presbyter David Gilchrist concelebrated the Liturgy. The Rev. Archdeacon George Tsourous also served.
Following the Service, a procession of clergy, laity, civil officials, and marching bands processed to the Sea, where the Holy Cross of the Lord was immersed in the waters, blessing the sea-life and sanctifying the waters.
The Blessing of the Seas celebration concluded with an Official Luncheon at the St. Augustine’s Events Venue.
Photo courtesy: Alexios Gennaris