The Feast of Holy Epiphany, a significant day in the Greek Orthodox calendar commemorating the baptism of Christ and the revelation of the Holy Trinity, was celebrated with devotion across Australia this year.
Churches from Sydney to Perth hosted liturgical services and blessings, drawing faithful from near and far.
In Redfern, the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady hosted His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, who presided over the Divine Liturgy and the Blessing of the Waters.
The Archbishop was joined by the Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, Archimandrite Christophoros Krikelis; his Assistant Priest, Archimandrite Stephanos Tinikashvili; and other clergy from Sydney.
Among the congregation were the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis; the Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Criminologist from Greece, Athanasios Kehagioglou; and the Vice President of Saint Basil’s Aged Care Homes, Dr Theo Penklis.
In Kogarah, the Church of the Resurrection of Christ also held a well-attended service, where parishioners came together to honour the holy day. The services were presided over by His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, with help from parish priests Father Athanasios Giatsios and Father Socrates Dokos.
In Brisbane, the Church of the Dormition of Our Lady in Mt Gravatt celebrated with vibrant participation. The faithful gathered for the Divine Liturgy and the Blessing of the Waters, reflecting the unity and devotion of the community.
His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane presided over the services, assisted by parish priest Father Nicholas Brown.
Perth also observed the feast with grandeur at the Church of Sts Constantine and Helen. The Blessing of the Waters ceremony was a highlight, attended by a large congregation. His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Perth presided over the services.
The Holy Archdiocesan Church of Our Lady “Axion Esti” in the Diocese of Chora hosted a traditional liturgical service, marked by heartfelt prayers and hymns, and presided over by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora.
The service emphasised the deep spiritual significance of the day, fostering a sense of collective faith among attendees.
Across all locations, the Blessing of the Waters stood out as a central ritual, symbolising the purification of the faithful and the sanctification of nature. The Feast of Epiphany continues to unite Greek Orthodox communities across Australia, serving as a profound expression of faith and cultural heritage.
