Celebration of the 62nd Anniversary of the Independence of Cyprus in Northcote, Victoria
On Sunday, October 2, the 62nd anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Cyprus was celebrated with splendor in the Archdiocesan District of Northcote of Victoria. As part of the anniversary events organised by the Cypriot Community of Melbourne and Victoria, at the Parish of The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, in the suburb of Coburg, a Doxology and Memorial Service was held for the repose of the souls of the heroes who fought for the liberation of the great island from the British occupation, presided over by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta, who represented His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
Among the crowded congregation was the new High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to Australia, Mr. Antonios Sammoutis, who visited Victoria for the first time since his recent appointment. Also present were the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Mr. Emmanuel Kakavelakis, the expatriate federal Member of Parliament, Ms. Maria Vamvakinou,state MPs Mr. Nazih Elasmar, Bruce Atkinson and Nicholas Staikos, the President of the Intercommunities Council of Victoria, Mr. Antonios Tsourdalakis, presidents and representatives of parish organisations, as well as young flag-bearers of the Community.
On Behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta, during his speech, welcomed the new High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus and wished him strength, courage and divine enlightenment in carrying out his new mission in the Antipodes.
Then, His Grace Bishop Evmenios referred to the events that led to the liberation of Cyprus and of course to the heroes who sacrificed their lives fighting for freedom. He emphasised that this sacrifice of the heroes is an example for the younger generations, as it highlights that without sacrifices important and high goals cannot be achieved. Also, His Grace Bishop Evmenios focused on the value of unity, which gives strength and power, while he pointed out that unity becomes complete only when our life revolves around the Church of Christ. “The Church is the one that heals wounds and divisions”, he underlined, “and brings together the differences of people which are often the cause of division”.
In Closing, His Grace Bishop Evmenios conveyed to all present the love and blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
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