This ambitious festival, launched today in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, is a celebration of art, music, talks, and heritage, commemorating the 1700th anniversary of the pivotal First Council of Nicaea (325 AD). For those unfamiliar, this council was a landmark moment in Christian history, foundational in shaping the unity and beliefs of the faith, particularly in giving us the Nicene Creed.
First Ecumenical Council of Nikea
Nicaea 2025 offers a remarkable opportunity for both people of faith and the wider community to engage with this rich history. Here’s a glimpse of what’s on offer:
Eternal Light: An Exhibition of Holy Icons
- When: May 24th to June 6th (Daytime: 11 am – 4 pm, Mon-Sat; Evenings: Tues 27th May & Thurs 5th June, 7 pm – 9 pm)
- Where: St Julian’s Church, Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury SY1 1UH
- What: An inspiring exhibition of holy icons by leading British icon painters, curated by the internationally renowned iconographer and liturgical artist Aidan Hart.
- Entry: Free!
- Talks by Aidan Hart: Don’t miss the chance to hear from master icon painter Aidan Hart on Tues May 27th at 7:30 pm, Sat May 31st at 3 pm, and Thurs June 5th at 7:30 pm. Also free entry.
Voices of Nicaea: A Concert of Ancient Sacred Music
- When: Sunday, May 25th
- What: Performances by the internationally-acclaimed Chronos Ensemble and the beloved UK-based Mosaic Choir.
- Note: This event is now SOLD OUT! A testament to its popularity.
Open Day at the Shrewsbury Orthodox Church of the 318 Holy Fathers of Nicaea
- When: Saturday, May 31st
- Where: Dove Close, Sutton, Shrewsbury SY2 6FB
- What: This historic 13th-century church is truly special – it’s believed to be the only church in Britain, and possibly Western Europe, dedicated to the 318 Holy Fathers of Nicaea! Explore rich icons, frescoes, and Medieval wall paintings.
- Programme: A short talk on the delegates of the First Council of Nicaea at 1:30 pm, followed by guided tours from 1:45 pm – 4:30 pm.
- Entry: Free!
- Parking: Please note there is no parking in Dove Close. Limited church parking is off Oteley Road, with additional parking available at Shrewsbury Town FC, a short walk away.
Ceremonial Celebrations with His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas
- When: Sunday, June 1st
- Where: St Julian’s Church, Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury SY1 1UH
- What: Divine Liturgy at 10:30 am, followed by a Celebration Lunch at Shrewsbury Town Football Stadium.
- Booking: Advance booking is essential for the Celebration Lunch (see website).
Nicaea 2025 Symposium: Faith, Council, Legacy
- When: Saturday, June 21st, 10 am – 5 pm
- Where: St Julian’s Church, Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury SY1 1UH
- What: A day of profound insights featuring the renowned theologian Reverend Professor John Behr, of the University of Aberdeen, alongside other distinguished clergy and academics.
- Booking: Advance booking is essential (see website).
Organised by the Shrewsbury Orthodox Church, Nicaea 2025 is a truly inclusive celebration, inviting everyone to discover more about this significant historical event and its enduring legacy.
For more information and to book tickets for the Celebration Lunch and Symposium, visit the official website: https://shrewsburyorthodox.com/nicaea25/
We encourage all our guests and followers to take advantage of this incredible opportunity to explore a unique aspect of global heritage right here in Shrewsbury!
