Protopresbyter Alban Barter

Ordination & Pastoral Service: Ordained as a deacon and subsequently as the first resident parish priest in 1986 under Archimandrite Barnabas (Burton), Fr. Alban served the faithful across Chester, Shrewsbury, and North Wales during the early founding years of the parish. He was later elevated to the rank of Protopresbyter.

Community Leadership: Fr. Alban led services in Chester—from the early days at St. Barnabas near the railway station to the establishment of the parish community at the Overleigh Cemetery Chapel in 1987. He was also instrumental in reviving the historic annual Orthodox pilgrimage to the Sacred Well of Saint Winefride at Holywell in 1986.

Civic Life & Vocation: Beyond his spiritual duties, Fr. Alban served for over 30 years as the HM Coroner for the City of Liverpool. His deep faith and pastoral spirit brought exceptional care and compassion to thousands of families during his career in public service.

Legacy: Following the repose of his wife, Barbara, in 1997, Fr. Alban stepped back as Priest Emeritus, remaining a beloved figure in the community until his repose in 2009.