List of previous clergy 

The Church of the Holy Unmercenaries (Saints Cosmas and Damian), London

Historical Overview and Development
Foundation and Early Organisation

The early development of the Church of the Holy Unmercenaries was driven by a committed group of founding members who formed the first church committee. Key figures included:

Andreas Avgoustis (President)

Zinon Tsietras (Vice President)

Michail Pieri (Treasurer)

Chrysostomos Philippou (Secretary)

Theodoros Papachristou and Stelios Karasialis (Members)

 

These individuals worked collectively and selflessly to establish the Church, often under difficult financial and practical conditions. Their efforts included fundraising, overseeing construction works, and supporting the acquisition of adjacent land to secure the Church’s future expansion.

​

 Establishment of the Church Building

The Church faced significant early challenges, including inadequate infrastructure such as heating and flooring.

In 1972, a loan was sought to install central heating, greatly improving conditions.

Efforts were also made to acquire neighbouring land from the local authority (London Borough of Camden), although this request was ultimately declined.

 

Despite these obstacles, the community persevered through collective effort, donations, and voluntary work.

​

Consecration of the Church (1975)

A major milestone in the Church’s history was its consecration in 1975 by Archbishop Athenagoras.

 

The consecration followed traditional Orthodox practice, including:

The placement of holy relics within the altar

The sealing of the altar with a mixture of wax, mastic, myrrh, and incense

The anointing of the Church walls with holy chrism

 

This marked the transformation of the building into a fully consecrated Orthodox temple, establishing it as a spiritual centre for the faithful.

 

Development of Community Life

Following consecration, the Church gradually evolved into a structured and active community.

 

Key developments included:
Regular liturgical services

Formation of a women’s auxiliary association

Fundraising initiatives to support the Church and those in need

Strengthening of parish organisation

 

The Church became not only a place of worship but also a centre for social and charitable activity.

 

Education and Youth Formation

Catechetical School

A catechetical school was established to teach children the foundations of the Orthodox faith.

Children were instructed in:

Christian doctrine

Orthodox traditions

Participation in church services (including altar service for boys)

 

This initiative played a crucial role in preserving faith and identity among younger generations.

Greek Language School

A Greek language school operated alongside the Church from its earliest years.

 

Key details:

Began in 1971–72 with approximately 18 students

Expanded to around 40 students within a few years

Classes were held weekly (Tuesdays and Saturdays)

Fees were minimal or symbolic

 

The school aimed to preserve:

Greek language

Cultural identity

Orthodox Christian heritage

 

It operated successfully for over a decade until 1984, when demographic shifts and the establishment of other Greek schools led to its closure.

 

Parish Growth and Spiritual Life

Over the years, the Church strengthened its spiritual and communal role:

Youth groups were formed to engage younger members

Sermons and catechesis were offered in both Greek and English

Regular gatherings and community events were organised

Charitable activities expanded through cooperation with parish organisations

 

The Church became a focal point for both spiritual life and cultural continuity for the Greek Orthodox community in London.

 

Development of the Interior and Iconography

Significant effort was made to enhance the interior of the Church in accordance with Orthodox tradition.

 

Key developments:
Installation and proper arrangement of icons following canonical Orthodox guidelines

Introduction of stained glass elements

Reorganisation of the sanctuary (holy altar area) to reflect liturgical order

 

In 2012, a major effort was undertaken to properly position portable icons according to traditional ecclesiastical iconographic structure.

 

The Shrine (Proskynitarion) of the Holy Unmercenaries

A dedicated shrine area was established within the Church for the veneration of Saints Cosmas and Damian.

 

Features include:
A large icon of the Saints

Offerings from the faithful (icons, votive objects, candles)

A newly commissioned Byzantine-style icon (2016)

A carved wooden icon stand

 

This space serves as a focal point for personal prayer and devotion.

 

Physical Improvements to the Church

Over time, various improvements were made to the Church building:

Installation of marble flooring, with materials imported from Cyprus

Construction of a raised marble sanctuary (solea)

Donations from benefactors supporting structural and aesthetic upgrades

 

These enhancements contributed to the dignified and lasting character of the Church.

 

Clergy Who Have Served the Parish

The life of the Church has been shaped by the dedication of its clergy:

Fr Kyriakos Korniotis (1971–1974)

Fr Georgios Marangos (1975–1982)

Archimandrite Amfilochios Iladis (1982)

Fr Andreas Chatzisavvas (1983–1991)

Fr Anastasios Giannatos (1991–2007)

Fr Vasileios Christodoulou (2007–2011)

Archimandrite Chrysostomos Tympas (2012–2023)

 

Each contributed to the spiritual growth, organisation, and continuity of the parish.

The Church of the Holy Unmercenaries stands as a testament to faith, perseverance, and community.

 

From humble beginnings and significant challenges, it developed into:

A fully consecrated Orthodox Church

A centre of education and cultural preservation

A spiritual home for generations of faithful

 

Its history reflects the collective dedication of clergy, parishioners, and benefactors, whose contributions continue to shape its mission today.