Over 250 Received into the Orthodox Church in Britain
A wave of baptisms across the Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain reveals a quietly growing and deeply diverse Orthodox Church.
HERTFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND — More than 250 catechumens have been received into the Orthodox Church across the Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain in recent weeks, highlighted by a large baptismal service on April 4 led by Abp. Nikitas at the Church of the Twelve Apostles on Lazarus Saturday.
In Hertfordshire alone, 75 newly illumined faithful entered the Church, while similar services took place in Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cambridge, and London. The widespread receptions reflect a growing movement within the Archdiocese, as increasing numbers embrace the Orthodox faith through parish life and catechetical formation.
Many of those received participated in the Archdiocese’s Discover Orthodoxy program, led by Presbyter George Tsiappourdhi, which has welcomed approximately 250 individuals since September 2025. The newly illumined, representing diverse national and cultural backgrounds, entered the Church through Baptism, Chrismation, or both, and received the Holy Eucharist for the first time during the Divine Liturgy.
Following the service, Abp. Nikitas expressed gratitude to clergy and volunteers who supported the effort, as the faithful gathered for a Lenten reception. The day stood as a powerful witness to the quiet growth of a vibrant and diverse Orthodox community.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the European Archdiocese launched an online Orthodox education center for English speakers.
