Eight newly-baptised Orthodox Christians at the Church of the Resurrection of Christ in Sydney

The Holy Archdiocese of Australia welcomed eight new members, from the adult Catechumens at the Parish of the Resurrection of Christ, in the Sydney suburb of Kogarah. With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, the Parish Proistamenos, His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, joined by the Reverend Fathers, Athanasios, Socrates and Panteleimon, performed the Sacrament of Holy Baptism and Chrismation, in the presence of relatives and friends of the newly illumined Christians and a large number of parishioners who actively attended this important and blessed occasion for their Parish.

The atmosphere was one of profound spiritual joy, as these eight newly illumined Christians received the names: Theophan, Paul, Panayiota, Maria, Catherine, Penelope, Nina, and Demetrios, and were received into the fullness of the Orthodox faith, having “put on Christ” through the holy waters of Baptism. Their journey of faith was embraced by the entire community, who stood as witnesses to their rebirth in Christ. His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, conveyed the paternal blessings and wishes of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios to the newly illumined members of the Orthodox Church.

Following the Baptismal service, a beautiful outdoor dinner was lovingly prepared by the Philoptochos Association, providing a fitting conclusion to this blessed day. Parishioners and guests joined together in fellowship, sharing in the joy of our new brothers and sisters in Christ, wishing also that their hearts always be warmed by the light of Christ!