Canberra: Memorial service and laying of wreath in Canberra for Cypriot brethren

With the Blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia,  His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Charioupolis, the Archiepiscopal Vicar of Canberra celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the church of St Nicholas in Canberra last Sunday 3rd July, assisted by Reverend Father Petros Kipouros, the Parish Priest.

At the conclusion of the service, His Grace conducted a memorial service for our departed Cypriot brethren, victims of the 1974 Turkish invasion, and spoke about the importance of keeping their memories alive. Moreover His Grace urged the congregation to light a candle for Cyprus on every occasion they attend church praying for a better future for Cyprus.

In attendance was the Ambassador of the Greece, His Excellency Georgios Papacostas,  the High Commissioner of Cyprus, Her Excellency Mrs Martha Mavrommatis,  the President of the Parish and Community of St Nicholas Mr John Loukadellis and the President of the Cypriot Community of Canberra Mrs Georgia Alexandrou.

In the afternoon of the same day His Grace along with the Cypriot High Commissioner attended the Australian War Memorial and laid a wreath for our Cypriot brethren on behalf of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and its Primate and Shepherd, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios.

It must be noted that it was the first time that an Orthodox Bishop laid a wreath at the Australian War Memorial for our dearly departed Cypriot brethren.

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