A spirit of pride and reverence filled the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in Redfern on Monday, April 28, as Sydney warmly welcomed the arrival of the Evzones – the elite Presidential Guard of the Hellenic Republic – with a solemn Doxology Service.
The service, presided over by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, marked the official opening of the Evzones’ Sydney visit during the ANZAC Day period. The powerful ceremony reflected the deep bonds forged between Greece and Australia across generations of shared sacrifice.
In the spirit of Pascha, the congregation joyously chanted “Christ is Risen” (Christos Anesti), filling the cathedral with a profound sense of renewal and hope.
The service was attended by the Premier of New South Wales, the Hon. Chris Minns, and the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, both of whom addressed the congregation alongside Archbishop Makarios.
In his heartfelt address, Archbishop Makarios said: “The presence [of the Evzones] in Australia, especially during the sacred commemoration of ANZAC Day, touches deeply the soul of our people.”
“It reminds us of the unbreakable bond forged between Greece and Australia – two nations separated by oceans yet united in spirit through shared sacrifices, common ideals and the steadfast commitment to liberty, democracy and the dignity of the human person,” the Archbishop added.
“This year, we joyfully commemorate 125 years of shared ideals and values between Australia and Greece. It is a tribute to all who stood and continue to stand in defence of freedom and homeland.”
He also praised the Evzones as living symbols of resilience: “Today, the Evzones, in their romantic uniform, stand as living symbols of the Greek spirit, a spirit which has inspired countless generations to defend faith, family, Church and homeland with courage and selflessness.”
Premier Minns, visibly moved by the occasion, spoke of the enduring friendship between the two nations, forged in both war and peace.
“Despite being separated by great distances, our people, our histories and, I think, our values, remain closely connected,” he said.
“In World War One, the Greek island of Lemnos served as the main base for more than 50,000 Australian soldiers, sailors and nurses… The story of Lemnos is, sadly, an overlooked but crucial chapter in Australia’s military history.”
Reflecting on the historic Battle of Crete, Premier Minns added: “Through the horrors of the war, our people forged a bond that remains unbreakable today… A friendship that was forged on the battlefields and through waves of migration, has strengthened by the ties with our people. As we reflect on the past 125 years, we have so much to look forward to in the next 125. Australia has a good friend in Greece, and you have a good friend in us.”
The Consul General of Greece, Mr Mallikourtis, spoke with pride of the Evzones’ historic significance.
“Their costume is linked to the history of our nation, and they are a symbol of valour and self-sacrifice for all Greeks. That’s why they are recognised all over the world,” he said.
Mr Mallikourtis also emphasised the timely symbolism of their presence: “What better time for them to be here to celebrate together with our Australian brothers, ANZAC Day… Our bonds are unbreakable. We were brothers-in-arms for two world wars and we share the same values.”
As the service concluded, there was a palpable sense of unity and shared purpose among all present.
The arrival of the Evzones to Sydney – during the period of national remembrance of ANZAC Day – served as a powerful reminder of the courage, faith, and enduring friendship that binds Greece and Australia across oceans and generations.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos (unless specified otherwise).
