On Tuesday, February 18, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia hosted ‘The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia 2024 HSC Awards Ceremony’ at the Great Hall of Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney.
The event celebrated the academic achievements of students from St Spyridon College, St Euphemia College, and All Saints Grammar in the Higher School Certificate Examinations last year.
The ceremony was attended by His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, representing Archbishop Makarios, along with His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Malikourtis, clergy, school principals, board representatives, students, and their families.
Following an opening prayer by Bishop Iakovos, St Euphemia College’s Principal Penny Pachos and Deputy Principal Jasmin Mano welcomed guests.
Mr Malikourtis also spoke and emphasised the importance of education and preserving the Greek language to maintain Hellenic culture.
Later, students who excelled in the HSC exams received certificates personally signed by Archbishop Makarios.
Bishop Iakovos read a message from the Archbishop, who praised the students’ achievements and offered spiritual guidance, stating, “At this moment, as you stand on the threshold of adulthood, filled with aspirations and dreams, I offer you one fundamental piece of advice: never forget God… If we build our future without Him, we build upon sand.”
Archbishop Makarios also encouraged them to let Christ guide their choices, reminding them that “True success is found in a life lived with purpose, humility, and love.”
The ceremony concluded with photographs and a celebratory supper, marking a memorable occasion honouring academic excellence within the Greek Orthodox community.
