St Spyridon College marked the beginning of the 2026 academic year with the traditional Service of the Blessing of the Waters (Agiasmos), held at the Senior Campus SPACe and attended by students from Kindergarten to Year 12, staff, families and Parish President Elia Economou, and other parish representatives.
The sacred service was led by His Grace Bishop Christophoros of Kerasounta, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, assisted by the Very Reverends Father Steven Scoutas and Father Stavros Ivanos.
United in prayer, the College community sought God’s grace, guidance and protection for the year ahead.
Conveying the message and paternal blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, His Grace reminded students and staff that every beginning in the life of the Church is strengthened through prayer, and that human effort bears fruit when illumined by God’s wisdom.
In a message, Archbishop Makarios expressed his “great spiritual joy” at the commencement of the new academic year, offering warm wishes for a year that is both academically fruitful and spiritually enriching. His message also recognised World Greek Language Day, highlighting the enduring value of the Greek language as a living link to faith, culture and identity.
Addressing students personally, His Grace spoke warmly of his visits to the College and encouraged all to remain connected to the life of the Church and Archdiocese, assuring everyone of His Eminence’s continued pastoral care and support.
In response, Head of College Amelia Katsogiannis expressed the College’s sincere gratitude for His Grace’s presence and blessing. She noted that the College felt deeply honoured to welcome him, describing him as “not a person in a photo or a book, but someone tangible, who has shown love, care and direction towards our College,” reaffirming the strong bond between the College, Parish and Archdiocese.
The service concluded with the sprinkling of holy water throughout the gathering, symbolising renewal, protection and God’s abiding presence.
As the College begins another year of learning and growth, the Agiasmos reaffirmed St Spyridon College’s commitment to nurturing students academically, spiritually and culturally within the life of the Orthodox Church. Forever Excelling.
*Photography Credit: Tom Skolarikis
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