Antiochian Orthodox Society of Britain

The Antiochian Orthodox Society of Britain is a UK-based charitable organisation dedicated to supporting the religious, administrative, and financial activities of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian community within England and Wales. The society operates primarily to sustain and promote the cultural, spiritual, and social life of the Antiochian Orthodox faithful in Britain.

History and Incorporation

The society was incorporated as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital on 17 August 1987 and subsequently registered as a charity on 26 June 1989. It continues to be active under company number 02155292 and charity number 801540.

Purpose and Activities

The organization primarily engages in religious activities, including the facilitation of Orthodox Christian worship and community services. It provides grants to other charities or voluntary bodies, offers various services, and supports the broader mission of the Orthodox Church of Antioch throughout England and Wales. The society also assists in the administration and financial oversight of St. George's Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral in London, supporting the clergy and parish needs.

Governance and Structure

The charity is governed by a board of trustees responsible for the management and oversight of all charitable activities. As of the latest reports, the society is managed by 12 trustees and supported by approximately 30 volunteers. The trustees adhere to various policies, including those governing safeguarding vulnerable beneficiaries, financial controls, trustee conflicts of interest, and serious incident reporting.

No trustees receive remuneration or benefits from the charity, and the organisation operates without trading subsidiaries.

Financial Overview

For the financial year ending 31 December 2023, the charity reported income and expenditure related to its religious and community services. No employees received benefits over £60,000. The society maintains strict internal controls and policies to ensure accountability and transparency in its financial management.

Location and Operations

The Antiochian Orthodox Society of Britain serves communities across England and Wales. It forms part of the larger Antiochian Orthodox Church's presence in the British Isles and Ireland, which promotes Orthodox Christian worship, education, and mission.

This article was compiled using data from the UK Charity Commission, Companies House records, and the official St. George’s Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral website.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/801540 [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/801540/full-print [3] https://stgeorgeantioch.org/about-us/the-society/ [4] https://www.antiochian-orthodox.com [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/02155292