In a cheerful and constructive atmosphere, another gathering of Greek entrepreneurs, academics, and community figures took place on Saturday, December 21 at the welcoming venue of Nikos Cakes in Fairfield, Victoria.
The event has been envisioned and sustained for 20 years by well-known entrepreneur and philanthropist Gregory Kaias, along with community members Kostas Saristavros and Dimitris Karalakis.
Several notable figures were present on the day including His Eminence Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand, who attended with the blessing and permission of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
In a moving address, Metropolitan Myron highlighted the unique challenges faced by Hellenism and Orthodoxy in NZ and nearby regions such as Fiji and Samoa.
Metropolitan Myron also emphasised the Church’s monumental efforts to support Orthodox churches and orphanages, aiming to improve the living conditions of Orthodox Christians in these areas despite significant challenges.
Mr Saristavros, in his welcoming remarks, expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support of this cross-border initiative.
Mr Saristavros also encouraged the community to support Melbourne’s Greek organisations, societies, churches, and all aspects of Hellenic culture, stressing the importance of preserving Greek identity and language to prevent the decline of the diaspora.
The President of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), Bill Papastergiadis, praised such initiatives and underscored the importance of strengthening Hellenism.
*All photos by Con Deves.
