With many Greek people unable to physically take part in Holy Week services this year, churches across Australia have jumped on the ‘virtual candle’ bandwagon.
St Spyridon Parish in Kingsford and Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Burwood kicked off the ‘Let Us Light A Candle For You’ campaign this week by asking their parishioners to buy a candle online, which they would then light for them at church.
In a Facebook post, Father Scoutas from St Spyridon Parish said the initiative ensured “parishioners remain connected with the Church and find strength and peace through Her.”
“Lighting candles is an ancient tradition of the Church. In lighting a candle, we are reminded of the words of Christ who said: “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life”,” the website stated.
“An online candle can be a helpful way to pray for your own health and for the well-being of your family and friends.”
If your local parish is Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Burwood, they are also giving the faithful a chance to choose which day of Holy Week they want their candle to be lit.
“Please visit our online store to purchase your candles. Choose the number of candles that you would like lit and the particular services you would like them to be lit at,” the Facebook announcement read.
“If you would like Father George to pray for your loved ones, living and/or departed, please provide details in the comments section of the checkout. He will be commemorating these names at the Proskomede (Divine Liturgy preparation) of the upcoming services.”
If this initiative is something you would like to take part in, you can visit the online store of St Spyridon Parish here or that of St Nectarios here.
