Historic Armenian, Assyrian, Greek genocide commemoration at St Paul’s Cathedral Melbourne

·

The Australian Hellenic Council (AHC) has warmly acknowledged the profound success of the ecumenical evening prayer service held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne on April 6, honouring the victims of the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek genocides.

The deeply moving service, hosted by the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne in collaboration with the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek Orthodox Churches, served as a powerful testament to interfaith solidarity and remembrance. 

The solemn event brought together a diverse congregation to reflect upon the tragic historical events and to offer prayers for the souls of the victims. The service underscored the enduring importance of acknowledging these atrocities and promoting peace and understanding within our community. 

armenian assyrian greek commemoration

The AHC extended its sincere gratitude to all participating clergy, especially those of the Anglican Church, whose initiative this was, the Armenian and Assyrian churches who have been at the forefront of the campaign for Genocide recognition, as well as His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora and Father Phillip of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia for attending. 

The collaborative nature of the service, bringing together different Christian denominations, exemplified the power of unity in the face of shared historical trauma. 

The AHC was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including Federal Senator Raff Ciccione, Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee, and Ann-Marie Hermans, Victorian State Member of the Legislative Council. Their attendance highlighted the significance of the event and the ongoing commitment of Australian political leaders to recognising and addressing historical injustices. 

armenian assyrian greek commemoration

“This ecumenical service on April 6th was a deeply significant moment of remembrance and solidarity,” Peter Stefanidis, President of the AHC, said.

“The coming together of these diverse communities to honour the victims of the genocides is a powerful symbol of our shared humanity and our commitment to ensuring that these atrocities are never forgotten.

“Furthermore, we acknowledge that this same day marks the 111th anniversary of the massacre of the Greeks in Thrace, known to our community as ‘Mavro Pascha’ (Black Easter). We are profoundly grateful to the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne and all participating churches, and community leaders for their leadership in organising this impactful event.” 

Dean Kalimniou, for and on behalf of the Joint Justice Initiative, stated that: “We are grateful to the Anglican Church for its support and principled stance towards the recognition of the plight of Genocide victims everywhere. It is only by recognising such criminal acts, that we can provide true context to the suffering of victims and ensure that such crimes are never again repeated.” 

The AHC remains committed to working alongside all communities to promote education, awareness, and recognition of the Armenian, Assyrian, and Greek genocides. It believes that by remembering the past, we can build a more just and peaceful future for all. 

greek film festival melbourne

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Australian doctors praise Rhodes Hospital during visit

A delegation of 25 hospital doctors from Australia visited the General Hospital of Rhodes this week as part of a tour of medical facilities.

Ange Postecoglou leaves Nottingham Forest with classy farewell after being sacked

Ange Postecoglou has been sacked by Nottingham Forest just 39 days after taking charge, but the Greek Australian showed trademark composure.

Turkey accuses Greece of blocking entry into EU defence program

Turkey has accused Greece of undermining European security by opposing Ankara’s bid to join the EU’s SAFE defence program.

Ceasefire in Gaza resumes after deadly Israeli strikes kill 26

The Israeli military confirmed on Sunday, October 19, that the ceasefire in Gaza had resumed following an exchange of violence.

Tufan Erhurman elected new Turkish Cypriot leader in first-round victory

Tufan Erhürman, president of the Republican Turkish Party (CTP), has been elected the new leader of the Turkish Cypriot community.

You May Also Like

‘We love you’: Children hoist banner for mother hospitalised with Covid-19

Three children have sent a sweet message to their mother in hospital, who is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus disease.

The Australians of Greek heritage who were elected in SA’s Council Elections

The votes for the 2022 Council Elections across South Australia have been counted, here are the candidates of Greek heritage.

Thanasi Kokkinakis advances to Adelaide International quarterfinals with thrilling win

Thanasi Kokkinakis has rekindled memories of his 2021 breakthrough title run, reaching the quarterfinals of his hometown tournament.