The new Archbishop of Thyateira and Great Britain, Nikitas, assumed his office aiming to continue the work of his predecessor, to attract more young people to the Church, to promote religious education and to make a positive contribution to the lives of members of the Greek and Cypriot communities in Britain.
In a meeting with reporters on Monday evening in London, the skai.gr stressed that the 64-year-old Archbishop admitted that he knew “nothing” about the British capital and the community. However, as he said, he will be ready to learn more with the help of bishops and priests when he takes up officially his duties.
He confirmed that the enthronement ceremony would take place on July 27.
The Archbishop unfolded his plans, such as to develop programs for the religious education of adult believers, to deal with the schools of the community for the teaching of the Greek language, and to have contact with young people, who are “the present and not the future of Church.”
“The Church should deal with human rights and modern slavery issues. The Church has a responsibility to raise awareness on these issues. One example is the Cyprus dispute, which is an issue that concerns the whole world. We have to tell the truth about the violation of human rights, not only in Cyprus, but all over the world,” said Archbishop of Thyateira.
Invited to send a message to the community, he urged its members to “open their heart” to him in order that he can convey the Lord’s message to them.
The new Archbishop also said that he met his predecessor on Monday. “I met my predecessor to get his blessing, to express my gratitude, to kiss his hand and convey the love message on behalf of the Ecumenical Patriarch. I consider him to be my father and have instructed the staff of the Archdiocese to take care of what he needs to rest.”