An “Elston” Wedding Blessing in
Doğanköy Church
By Chris Elliott
Having spent time in and around Doğanköy or Thermia as it was once known, I met with some of the residents and in talking to them you 
soon start to discover more of the fascinating history and heritage the village has and one of these gems is ancient Doğanköy Church.
In the past I had the experience of visiting this church and writing about it and also being able to witness this wonderful ancient building being used for art and photographic exhibitions and also on a number of very special occasions when two people came together to receive a wedding blessing within its very special walls. I was delighted therefore to receive the following news and pictures of another recent wedding blessing to share with our readers.
From the pictures of the occasion I could see, as at previous wedding blessing ceremonies I had witnessed, the church had been decorated beautifully and with a theme suitable for this special occasion so well done to the organisors for a wonderful job.
“Once again the village of Doğanköy was the chosen location for a romantic wedding blessing. Close family and friends of Julie and Malcolm, the now Mr and Mrs Elston from Bury in Lancashire filled the restored 12th century church in its idyllic setting to witness the blessing performed by Keith Lloyd.
They returned to a nearby villa to enjoy canapés and drinks before spending their evening at Efendi House in the old Turkish quarterof Kyrenia once known as Pano Kyrenia or the ‘Riatiko’.
J
ulie, the now Mrs Elston, described it as a “perfect” occasion and everything that she had ever wanted.
Recent restoration work was needed on the church after the winter and this was completed only days before the blessing and it was achieved with the help of the Muhtar, Halil Anildi, and the Girne Beledeyesi to whom the organizers send their heartfelt thanks and appreciation.
It is hoped that the use of the church will continue for many different events in the future and not just wedding blessings, which will enable the church to be kept in good order for future generations to visit, enjoy and treasure their memories.
If you would like to use Doğanköy Church for a very special occasion and require more information, please contact Paula or Incilay by email on n.cyprus.smallevents@gmail.com”
