Feast Day of St Andrew’s Parish in Noarlunga, Adelaide

With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, the parish of Saint Andrew in Noarlunga, Adelaide, celebrated its feast day. On Friday, 29 November 2024 the Vespers was officiated by His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide joined by the Adelaide clergy. On Saturday 30 November 2024 His Grace officiated at the Matins and presided over the Divine Liturgy.

A large number of faithful attended the holy services held in the adjacent hall of St Basil’s Homes due to the works taking place in the church to repair the damages from the devastating fire eight months ago. Among those present were the Consul General of Greece in Adelaide, Dr Alexandra Theodoropoulou, and the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Mr Vladimir Devrelis, President of the Inter-communities Council of the Holy Diocese of Adelaide, and Mr Ioannis Kiosoglous. A Byzantine choir, led by the Protopsaltis of the parish, Mr Michael Tyllis, enriched the services with their melodious chanting.

In his sermon, His Grace emphasised the humility, the unceasing prayer, and the love for Christ, which characterise the true Christian and fills his/her life with the joy in Christ. Also, His Grace conveyed to the congregation the love and warmest wishes of our Archbishop His Eminence Makarios who joins in spirit in the joy of the parish.

The parish priest, together with the members of the executive committee and the philoptochos, extend their heartfelt gratitude to St Basil’s Homes for their unwavering support and the provision of premises and equipment during this period of trial for the parish. Their thanks also go to the volunteers – Orthodox and non-Orthodox alike – whose dedication and love continue to sustain the parish. Additionally, they express deep appreciation to all faithful who support the parish and contribute in countless ways to the reconstruction of the Holy Church of Apostle Andrew.

Following the service, during a festive communal meal hosted by the parish, the parish priest Father Armandos Manafis expressed his heartfelt gratitude to our Archbishop His Eminence Makarios and to His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide for their paternal support and spiritual guidance which constitute a constant source of strength and inspiration for the parish.