The Ordination of Fr Deacon Aidan in Lincoln

His Eminence Metropolitan Silouan conducted a pastoral visit to the Parish of All Saints in Lincolnshire on 7 and 8 February 2026.

He was warmly welcomed by Archimandrite Philip Hall and Deacon Panagiotis upon his arrival. On Sunday, he was assisted in the Divine Liturgy also by Father Alban Campbell and Father George Hackney.

On Saturday evening, 7 February, His Eminence presided at Great Vespers at 5:00 pm and addressed the faithful on the importance of honesty and sincere repentance. Referring to the Sundays of the Publican and the Pharisee and of the Prodigal Son, he emphasised that true repentance begins with humility and truth before God. He reminded the faithful that God desires sincerity of heart rather than outward appearances, encouraging honesty in prayer and confession as preparation for Great Lent.

On Sunday, 8 February, His Eminence presided at Orthros and the Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am. During the service, he ordained Aidan Christopher to the Holy Diaconate to serve in the Parish of All Saints in Lincolnshire.

In his sermon, entitled “The Calling to Fatherhood in the House of God,” His Eminence reflected on the loving father in the parable of the Prodigal Son as an image of God’s mercy and compassion. He spoke of spiritual fatherhood as a calling to patience, love, and self-sacrifice. Addressing the newly ordained deacon, he encouraged him to serve with humility, closeness to the people, and sincere pastoral care.

His Eminence concluded by reminding the faithful that all are called to return continually to the Heavenly Father through repentance and prayer.

The pastoral visit was a source of spiritual encouragement and renewal for the parish. Through prayer, teaching, and the ordination of a new deacon, His Eminence strengthened the bonds between the bishop, clergy, and faithful, and prepared them spiritually for the coming of Great Lent.