ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE

Exarchate of Parishes of Russian
Tradition in Western Europe

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FR. JOHN!

This year we have the great joy of celebrating Father John’s 70th birthday. He has been our true shepherd because, as you all know, he has led us bravely from Ennismore Gardens into our new parish life with enormous warmth and courage. He has accomplished this despite very serious ill health, but with the support of all his family.

Presentation of flowers by Tamara Dragadze

He and his wife Shanta and their two small children came into our lives when Metropolitan Anthony made him a priest in March 1979.  Who can forget the way he contributed so actively over the decades: for example, giving talks, retreats, yearly camp and youth groups, Sunday school lessons and he even opened his home to the Effingham conference continuation group. More significantly, he cared for his parishioners individually and celebrated so beautifully the liturgies and all the sacraments with faithfulness and inspiration.

Presentation by Nikolai Matveyev

No wonder Metropolitan Anthony chose Father John to care for him in his last years, a task he did with discretion and loyalty.

At his death, it was Father John’s tenacity and inner strength which supported us through the consequent turmoil, thus allowing Bishop Basil to deal with the wider issues which ensued.

Behind his natural reserve, Father John has a great capacity to feel how the heart of a community beats and he reacts accordingly. When necessary he is forthright with his opinions and wise in his  action.

We have much to be grateful for. We thank God that he is our priest and we wish him and his family many years of good health and  happiness.

 Jane Collingridge and Tamara Dragadze

GOD GRANT HIM MANY, MANY YEARS!