Visit by his Grace

Bishop Raphael of Ilion

Third Salutations, 21 March 2025

On Friday, 21st March 2025, the Parish of St Anthony the Great in Newcastle had the blessing of receiving His Grace Bishop Raphael of Ilion, who presided over the Third Salutations to the Most Holy Theotokos, a candlelit service deeply cherished during the Lenten season.

Concelebrating with the parish priest, the Revd Presbyter Symeon Tobias Menne, His Grace was joined in prayer by a faithful congregation, to whom he also offered the opportunity for holy confession following the service.

In his pastoral address, His Grace reflected on the history and spiritual depth of the Akathist Hymn, drawing attention to the “joyful sorrow” that characterises these uniquely placed services throughout the Fast. With warmth and theological clarity, he spoke of the Most Holy Theotokos as our ever-present intercessor—the one to whom we turn in pleading and thanksgiving, as we journey through Lent toward the Resurrection of her Son and our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

This message of deep gratitude and continual supplication also formed the heart of His Grace’s homily during a previous visit to the Parish, on the occasion of its Patronal Feast Day. On Sunday, 19th January 2025, Bishop Raphael presided at the Divine Liturgy, concelebrating with the Revd Oeconomos Andreas Amirhom and the Revd Presbyter Symeon Tobias Menne. The celebration concluded with the service of Artoklasia for the health and protection of the faithful, followed by a festal meal lovingly prepared by the parishioners, who gathered in joy and thanksgiving around their Bishop.

The Parish of St Anthony the Great continues to grow in faith, reverence, and community spirit, enriched by moments of worship, fellowship, and the gracious presence of the Hierarchs of the Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain.