Pastoral Visit to the Orthodox Community of Saint Ninian in the Shetland Islands

From 17 to 20 July 2026, His Grace Bishop Raphael of Ilion and the Very Reverend Archimandrite of the Ecumenical Throne Dr Antonios Kakalis undertook a pastoral visit to the Shetland Islands, where they spent several blessed days with the Orthodox Community of Saint Ninian.

The principal celebrations took place on 18 and 19 July at Levenwick Hall, which members of the community had transformed into a fitting place of Orthodox worship.

At the heart of the visit was the reception of Alban and Elizabeth into the Orthodox Church through the Mystery of Holy Baptism and Chrismation. Their baptism was a source of great joy for the entire community, bringing together local faithful, families, friends and visitors. Among those present were two Orthodox nuns who had travelled from their monastery in Crete especially for the occasion.

During their time in Shetland, His Grace Bishop Raphael and Fr Antonios met members of the local community, offered pastoral guidance and experienced something of the distinctive life and warm hospitality of the islands.

The Orthodox Community of Saint Ninian first began meeting in Lerwick through the initiative of Mother Mary of Saint Sunniva Hermitage…