With the blessing of our Archbishop, His Eminence Metropolitan SILOUAN, the Young Adult Ministry (YAM) London officially launched with a Cheese & Wine evening held at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel in London on Saturday, 24 January 2026.
The initiative brings together young adults primarily from the two Antiochian parishes in London, St George Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral and St Botolph’s Antiochian Orthodox Parish, along with attendees from other Orthodox parishes across the Isles.
The evening unfolded informally, with the arriving participants mingling and enjoying fellowship over cheese, appetisers, wine, and soft drinks. Participants also took part in a game of human bingo, which helped people learn one another’s names, and fun facts about each other.
Afterwards, members of the YAM Committee for London introduced themselves and outlined the vision and goals for the year ahead. Chaired by the Metropolitan Silouan , the committee brings together members from both Antiochian parishes in London to support and coordinate the work of YAM. YAM aims to provide a space for young adults to grow together in Christ and support one another in faith, work, and family life within the Church. Four core pillars: service, worship, ministry, and fellowship, will guide all its future activities.
Fr Dmitry Ismagilov, the Chaplain of YAM London, then addressed the gathering, reflecting on the nature and purpose of ministry. He spoke about how the Church ministers to young adults locally, how young adults are called to serve the Church in return, and how fellowship and outreach form an essential part of this shared journey. His words offered encouragement and clear direction as the ministry begins this new chapter.
The evening continued with a trivia game and plenty of time for conversation, as participants mingled, shared food and drinks, and got to know one another better. Participants left with a strong sense of enthusiasm and anticipation for what lies ahead.
YAM London looks forward to welcoming everyone to its upcoming events, including a discussion evening titled “Love Is in the Air” on Friday, 6 February, and a gathering focused on Discovering Lenten Services on Friday, 13 February. Further details will be shared soon.