On Saturday, 20th April 2024, George Tsiappourdhi was ordained to the Holy Diaconate at the Church of the Holy Trinity and St. Luke in Birmingham. His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain presided over Matins and concelebrated the Divine Liturgy. Among those concelebrating was the V. Revd Archimandrite Christodoulos Kokliotis, the Revd Protopresbyter Christos Stephanou, Priest-in-Charge, the Revd Protopresbyter John Nankivell, the Revd Protopresbyter John Hookway, the Revd Hieromonk Bartholomew, the Revd Protopresbyter Theodoros Polyviou, Revd Oeconomos Aimilianos Epaminonda, Revd Oeconomos Nikolaos Karafylides, the Revd Presbyter Andreas Minic and the Revd Presbyter Georgios Athanasopoulos. The Rev. Archdeacon Dr George Tsourous and the Deacon Gregory Craveiro also served. Revd Presbyter Dr Nikita Banev was also prayerfully present in the altar.
On this significant day of his ordination to the first order of the priesthood, George expressed deep humility and gratitude to God but also His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas and everyone present, acknowledging his unworthiness for the “double blessing” of ordination, as he would be ordained a priest on the following day. His acceptance of this calling, inspired by the teachings of the Church, was marked by his commitment to serve with humility and love, acknowledging the critical need for more priests within the archdiocese.
In his heartfelt speech, George expressed his gratitude to a diverse group of individuals who have influenced his journey to ordination, including family, clergy, monastics, teachers, and friends. He reflected on significant personal changes that have enriched both his family life and spiritual development. This transformative journey was notably supported by the consistent patience and love of his family, underpinned by the wise guidance of his spiritual father, Father John Nankivell, who has been instrumental in helping him navigate his faith and relationships. Special acknowledgment was given to his wife, Hilda Georgia, whom he commended as a pillar of strength and support, and for filling the past year with profound love. As Fr George embraces his new ecclesiastical duties, he sought the prayers and ongoing support of the church community, committed to applying the lessons he has learned throughout his life.
In his address, Archbishop Nikitas offered paternal counsel to Fr George, urging him to face any potential difficulties with courage and to embody simplicity and humility in his priestly ministry to the people of God. The Archbishop also emphasised the immense blessing this ordination is for Fr George and his family, highlighting the remarkable grace of receiving both degrees of the priesthood within just two days. He noted that this swift progression is particularly auspicious as it allows Fr George the blessing of celebrating the Joyful Feast of Pascha in less than two weeks as a fully ordained priest.
At the conclusion of the Liturgy, His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas bestowed the Office of Confessor to the Revd Oeconomos Nicholas Karafyllides, recognising his dedicated pastoral work and authorising him to offer spiritual guidance as a confessor.
The day’s events culminated in a heartwarming reception organised by the Philanthropic Committee of Apostolos Louka & Estia, marking a memorable occasion for the Greek Orthodox Community in Birmingham.
