The annual celebration of Saint Artemios’ feast day is one of the key events on the Victoria Hellenic Police Association (VHPA) calendar.
St Artemios is known as the Patron Saint of police officers, and this opportunity brings together the community and police officers to share this religious and cultural heritage together. Their dedication to supporting both community events is paramount.
Once again, Saint John’s church in Carlton was the focal point in hosting a special Divine Liturgy on Sunday, October 19 to celebrate the feast of Saint Artemios.
During the service, an adorned icon of St Artemios was proudly displayed. This icon was a gift from the Hellenic Police Force (from Greece) as an act of friendship and goodwill between Greek and Australian police officers.
Following the service, a Doxology and Thanksgiving service was led by parish priest Father Emmanuel Lykopandis, a state and federal police Chaplain.
The event was attended by police officers, including the VHPA Board, which serves as a formal link between Greek Australian police officers and the Victorian Greek community. Among the guests was Assistant Commissioner Hilda Sirec, Australian Federal Police (AFP) Southern Command; Acting Superintendent Andrew Markakis, President of the VHPA; and other officers.
During his speech, Acting Superintendent Markakis dedicated the service to two fallen officers, Neal Thompson and Vadmin De Warrt-Hottart. He also thanked Fr Emmanuel and the St John’s parish for continuing to support police officers and host this annual event.
At the end of the service, the parish’s committee and Ladies Auxiliary had a barbecue on-site where police officers and the community came together in an enthusiastic and collaborative environment.
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