Approximately halfway through the service a call was received from the Coastguard to launch the lifeboat, and initially it was not known which lifeboat was required. The congregation made moves to disembark in a hurry when the message came through that it was the inshore lifeboat that was needed, so they had a ringside seat to watch the whole operation swing into action, with the lifeboat being launched down the slipway and the volunteer crew rapidly changing into their dry suits, lifejackets and helmets and leaping onboard to go to the rescue of some poor unfortunates in difficulty on the water.

Father Nikitas concluded the service as the lifeboat was returning to the slipway, having taken in tow, and safely landed the crew of a 10 ft boat that had had engine failure. The congregation then had the opportunity to witness the recovery of the lifeboat, and the work required to prepare it for immediate launch once again.

The congregation were then divided into small parties and given a guided tour of the all weather and inshore lifeboats. On leaving the station Father Nikitas said “Our grateful thanks for allowing our service to take place on the lifeboat and the time given to explain the workings of the lifeboat and the station. As an Offshore Member myself I am well aware of the importance of the RNLI in the life of seafarers and how our beaches are made safer by the presence of RNLI Lifeguards, and I hope our visit yesterday helped others to understand that importance. Our service contained prayers that those at sea might be under God’s protection.”

Notes to editors
• More information on the local Greek Orthodox Church can obtained from their website: www.orthodoxincornwall.org.uk.