“The Heart of Giving”: Effy Alexakis’ book about the work of Fr. Nektarios Zorbalas

“The Heart of Giving” is the title of the photographic book by Greek-Australian documentary photographer Effy Alexakis, which is dedicated to the life-long work of Archimandrite Fr. Nektarios Zorbalas.

Father Nektarios, a recently retired clergyman of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia, served for more than three decades as Parish Priest at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in Newtown, Sydney. During his many years of ministry, he was the “soul” of the Parish’s soup kitchen, which provided and continues to provide daily meals and care to those in need.

Effy Alexakis, knowing from earlier on, the charity work carried out by the Parish of Newtown through the Soup Kitchen, officially met Fr. Nektarios in February 2021, in the community hall of the church of Saints Constantine and Helen. Since then, for about two years, she made regular visits to the Soup Kitchen, often more than once a week, and documented the activities of Fr. Nektarios and the volunteers, both with her camera and by various interviews.

Through the pages of the book “The Heart of Giving”, with photographic material and descriptions, Ms. Alexakis highlights the kindness and selflessness of this Greek Orthodox clergyman, who dedicated his life to giving to his fellow human beings.

The presentation of this book, which is prefaced by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, will be take place on Sunday, 3 December 2023, at the Parish of Saint Nicholas in Marrickville, Sydney.

Those who are interested in purchasing a copy, can order it through the website: www.cafesandmilkbars.com.au, while it will also be available for purchase at the upcoming book launch at the Parish of Saint Nicholas, Marrickville.