The anniversary of the start of the EOKA liberation struggle was commemorated in Melbourne’s west on Sunday, March 30, with a Divine Liturgy and memorial service at the Church of Saint Andrew in Sunshine.
His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora presided over the service, conveying the paternal blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia to the faithful in attendance.
In his sermon, Bishop Evmenios reflected on the life of Saint Mary of Egypt, highlighting repentance as a lifelong journey that transforms the whole person – a central message of the Lenten period.
The service also held particular significance as it coincided with the anniversary of 1 April 1955, marking the beginning of the EOKA liberation struggle against British colonial rule in Cyprus.
Special tribute was paid to the heroes of Cyprus, whose struggle for freedom was described as deeply rooted in faith, courage and self-sacrifice, reflecting both national identity and spiritual conviction.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a memorial service was held at the monument in the church courtyard, where Bishop Evmenios and representatives of community organisations laid wreaths in honour of those who fell during the struggle.
The commemoration brought together members of the Greek and Cypriot communities, reinforcing the enduring historical and spiritual significance of EOKA within the diaspora.
