The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia hosted its annual festivities in South Australia, marking the 45th anniversary of the Epiphany celebrations on the picturesque foreshore of Glenelg.
Spanning three vibrant and sun filled days, from Friday, January 10 to Sunday, January 12, the festival brought together faith, culture, and community spirit.
The core of the festival was the Blessing of the Waters ceremony, led by His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide.
The procession of Orthodox clergy and faithful onto the Glenelg Jetty to bless the waters remains a cherished tradition for South Australian Orthodox Christians. This ritual, central to the Feast of Epiphany, commemorates the Baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan and the divine revelation of the Holy Trinity.
The contest for the Holy Cross
This year, approximately 60 competitors competed for the honour of retrieving the blessed cross.
Emerging triumphant was 21-year-old Vasilie Kypreos, a first-time winner from New South Wales, who claimed victory in a tight contest, outpacing his South Australian counterparts to secure the win.
With strong familial ties to both NSW and SA, Vasilie is connected to Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in Kingsford, NSW, and St George Church in Mile End, SA.
“Winning the cross was a great feeling,” Vasilie shared with The Greek Herald, adding he hopes the blessing of the cross will bring “good health and happiness for [his] family in 2025.”
As a Sydney-based lifeguard, wharfie and surfer, Vasilie added, “I also pray God will look after me while surfing and lifesaving.”
The Hon. Tom Koutsantonis MP, representing the Premier of South Australia, reflected on the significance of the event.
“Today we have witnessed the Church pray for our state and bless our waters through this ceremony. We pray for prosperity, for safety, for those who travel, and they pray for all of us. The sea has given us much – it has brought many Greek migrants here to these shores, but it has also brought the [Orthodox] Church to this shore,” Mr Koutsantonis said.
Glendi celebrations
The celebrations extended beyond the religious ceremony, with the Glenelg foreshore coming alive with cultural performances and live music.
The Pontian Brotherhood of SA, Messinian Greek Dance School of SA, and St George College Dance Group captivated audiences with traditional Greek dances, and the St Spyridon College Adelaide with their chanting choir. The Kosmos Band provided live music throughout the day, creating an atmosphere for dancing and festivity.
The Hon. Stephen Patterson MP, Local Member for Morphett, also expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the Greek Community and Bishop Silouan who come every year and bless the waters to “bring health… and prosperity here [to South Australia].”
Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, Consul General of Greece in South Australia, attended her first Epiphany celebration in the state. She described the event as “more than a blessing” and expressed her personal joy, as her son swam in the waters.
“This is more joyful than [even in] Greece because, of course, being in the summer, there are more swimmers to catch the cross and blessing!” the Consul General added.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, President of the Inter-communities Council of South Australia Dr Vladimir Devrelis expressed his gratitude to the crowd and dignitaries for participating in this special occasion. He emphasised its spiritual importance and highlighted the festival’s remarkable growth over the years, remarking on how it has become a cornerstone of community celebration.
The Glenelg Greek Festival stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring spirit and cultural legacy of the Greek Orthodox Christians of South Australia. Through dance, music, food, and faith, the festival celebrates the traditions and heritage cherished and passed down through generations.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Peter Tantalos
