On Wednesday, 27 November, 2019, the Holy and Great Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate added the name of Elder Sophrony of Essex to the list of Saints of the Orthodox Church.
The announcement, which had been anticipated since His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew had made reference to the matter in the recent past, brought great joy to the hearts of many, especially to the community of monastics in Essex and the Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain. While concrete plans have not been made to celebrate the joyous news, it is anticipated that a series of events and liturgical services will be organized by the Monastery and the Archdiocese, just as the official icon and services will be prepared. The glorification of Saint Sophrony is a great blessing for the world, at large, as this is a sign that holy people live among us and bear witness to the Truth of Jesus Christ.
May his blessing be with us and may he intercede before the throne of God for all people.