A licensing service for the Reverend George Vidiakin, house-for-duty priest in Ayia Napa, Cyprus, took place on Saturday (27 July), led by Bishop Sean.

The congregation of Christ Church welcomed Fr George and his family to the service, which was held at the Scandinavian Church.  

Bishop Sean preached a charge to George and the congregation, reminding—indeed, reassuring—each that, “like a three-legged stool, bishop, priest and laity are partners and fellow-workers for Christ.” Each, he said, has their place and particular ministry; and each depends “absolutely on the other”.

And he called on Christ Church to continue in its work “to demonstrate the love and welcome of God to all, especially the poor, for whom Christ always has a particular concern”. 

“Remember,” he said: ‘go’ is the first commanded action of the Great Commission. We are in a missional situation where we must creatively and boldly go out and search for God’s children in the wilderness of this world’s temptations.”

“I am delighted to herald this new beginning for the chaplaincy of Ayia Napa and for George and his family,” said Bishop Sean.

Photo credit: Maria Evangelou; Georgia Katsantonis