A memorial service was held on Sunday, July 13, at the Greek Orthodox church of the Presentation of Our Lady to the Temple in North Balwyn, Victoria to honour the sacrifice of Archbishop Kyprianou and his companions, executed on July 9, 1821, during the Ottoman repression of the Cypriot uprising.
Presided over by His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, with the assistance of Father Nikolaos, the service commemorated Archbishop Kyprianou, Bishops Chrysanthos of Paphos, Meletios of Kition, Lavrentios of Kyrenia, and 486 clergy and laypeople who stood with the Revolution of 1821.
The memorial was organised with the support of the Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria, the Apostolos Andreas Cyprus Orthodox Community West Sunshine, and other community and youth groups. The High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, Antonis Sammoutis, and various dignitaries were present.
Students bearing flags from the Cyprus Community Dance Group, the Pegasus Dance Academy, Oakleigh Grammar, and the church’s Hellenic School of Dance also took part.
The event concluded with a commemorative meal in the church hall, echoing the community’s commitment to preserving this historical legacy for future generations.
Claire Gazis delivered a powerful speech, stating: “July 9, 1821 marks a milestone in the history of Cyprus and highlights its share and sacrifice in the national struggle against the Ottoman yoke.”
Ms Gazis also read verses from Vasilis Michaelides’ poem “9η Ιουλίου 1821”, honouring the tragedy and resilience of the Cypriot people.
A number of other speeches were also given, including by the High Commissioner Mr Sammoutis.
*Photos supplied by Andrea Demetriou.
