Two new members to the Orthodox Community of the Shetland Islandstranslated

From July 17 to 20, 2026, His Eminence Bishop of Ilio Mr. Raphael and His Eminence Archimandrite of the Ecumenical Throne Mr. Antonios Kakalis made a pastoral visit to the Shetland Islands, being close to the faithful of the Orthodox Community of Saint Ninian. The central worship gatherings were held on the two days of July 18 and 19 in the Levenwick Hall, which the members of the local community had suitably converted into an Orthodox house.

At the heart of the mission was the inclusion of two new members, Alban and Elizabeth, into the bosom of the Church, with Theophilastatos performing the holy Sacrament of Baptism and Anointing. The baptism prayerfully united their families, friends and local believers. Especially for the occasion, two Orthodox nuns traveled from Crete.

Addressing the Christ-named crew, the Most Reverend Bishop of Ilio Mr. Raphael preached the divine word, offering pastoral guidance, and then accepted the hospitality of the islanders. The Orthodox Community of St. Ninian, originally established in Lerwick at the initiative of Gerontissa Mary from…