The Romanian Orthodox parish of Saint George in Holborn, the first Romanian community established in London, celebrated its patronal feast on Thursday with a Divine Liturgy led by Archbishop Atanasie of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
In his homily, the archbishop reflected on the life and witness of Saint George, saying true victory is found not in worldly power but in steadfast faith.
“He is one of the most venerated defenders of Christianity, with many churches — and even nations — claiming him as spiritual protector. His life and suffering are a compelling example of faith, courage and sacrifice for Christ the Saviour,” the archbishop said.
He stressed that Saint George represents one who conquered the world not by the sword, but through faith and self-giving love.
“Saint George gave his soul into the hands of Christ, whom he served his whole life, receiving the crown of martyrdom and becoming a living example of faith and courage for Christians.”
Ready to confess Christ in every circumstance
Archbishop Atanasie said the saint’s example remains deeply relevant today. “The life of the saint urges us to be strengthened in faith and to be ready to confess Christ in every circumstance,” he said.
“Though today we may not be called to give our lives in martyrdom, we are nevertheless called to a continual witness of faith in a world increasingly drifting away from God.”
The Romanian Archbishop also outlined practical spiritual remedies for daily struggles against passions and ignorance: living faith, unceasing prayer, fasting and ascetic discipline, active charity and purity of life.
“Whoever clothes himself in these, like the Holy Great Martyr George, will be victorious over sin and inherit the Kingdom of Heaven,” he concluded.
A historic Romanian presence in London
The Holborn community represents the earliest organised Romanian Orthodox presence in London, formed around the historic St Dunstan-in-the-West church. Pastoral ministry began there in 1964 through the service of Father Vintilă Popescu.
In 1966, Patriarch Justinian Marina visited London at the invitation of Archbishop Michael Ramsey of Canterbury. During that visit, he brought a 19th-century iconostasis originally made for Antim Monastery in Bucharest.
Over six decades, the parish’s philanthropic activity has supported Romanian students in London as well as newer Romanian parishes, missions and monasteries across Britain.
Among young people who once participated in the parish’s liturgical life was then-doctoral student Nicolae Mihăiță, later Archbishop Nifon of Târgoviște, honorary metropolitan and patriarchal exarch.
A landmark moment in parish life came on Feb. 14, 2019, when King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, visited the community.
Photo: Archdiocese of Great Britain and Northern Ireland / Dorinel Preoțescu
