Northcote: Akathist Hymn and All-night Vigil in honour of the Theotokos
On Friday 8th of April, with ecclesiastical grandeur, the service of the Akathist Hymn was conducted at the at the parish of “The Transfiguration of Our Lord” in Thomastown, following by the Holy Vigil which is held every year on this night in honour of Virgin Mary. His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta, the Archepiscopal Vicar for the District of Northcote in Victoria, presided both services.
His Grace Bishop Evmenios in his sermon referred to the historical development of the Akathist Hymn and among other things explained that the Akathist Hymn is like a song, but it is very different compared to other songs.
The difference is that the Akathist Hymn remains relevant in every era and in every generation, while a folk or a traditional song is forgotten, loses its relevance and remains only a relic of its time. “That shows us once again the Great Mystery of God and the constant inspiration of the Holy Spirit which maintains everything throughout the years for the salvation of each person”, His Grace mentioned.
Based on the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, which the Akathist Hymn describes, His Grace Evmenios emphasised that “the purpose for us is to say the “Amen. Amen. Βe it unto me according to thy word” and to put Christ in us also like the Virgin Mary.
It is important not only to show outwards that we have Christ, but to really allow Christ to be conceived in us and to become one with us. Then to be born from us through our good actions, our love for our fellow people, our tears of our repentance.”
His Grace Bishop of Kerasountos also took the opportunity to inform the people who were present about various initiatives that will take place after Easter, and he expressed his gratitude to His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia who always gives His blessings for any proposed initiative for the benefit of the entire Archdiocese.
In conclusion, His Grace Bishop of Kerasountos conveyed to the faithful the warm wishes of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia for a glorious Resurrection feast.
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