On Sunday, March 2, the Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW held a memorial service for the 112th anniversary of the Liberation of Ioannina at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Belmore, Sydney.
This solemn day of remembrance honoured the men and women who fought and sacrificed themselves for the freedom of Epirus from almost 500 years of Ottoman rule.
The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, who presided over the Divine Liturgy, and the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis.
All guests and parishioners participated in the Divine Liturgy and memorial service, where the Archbishop spoke eloquently about the history of Epirus and purpose of our memorial and celebration.
Following the service, the Secretary of Panipirotiki Enosis, Evangeleah Plakias, shared a short history of the wars and struggles that led Ioannina and Epirus to freedom.
A wreath laying ceremony was held within the Church. Wreaths were laid by Consul General Mr Mallikourtis; the President of Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW, Bill Kriezis; the President of the Philanthropic Association of Preveza Nikopolis NSW, Peter Tsoutsis; the President of Pontoxeniteas NSW, Maria Anthony; Head of School at All Saints Grammar, Elfa Lillis along with school students; Nick Vagerakas in memory of late members and friends; and Ms Plakias representing the youth of Greek Australians and Epirotans.
The commemoration event continued with a lunch service at the Greek Community Club in Lakemba.
