GO Youth Melbourne: “Finding God through Illness and Suffering”

With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and under the guidance of His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, on Thursday evening, 13 March 2025, over 100 young Orthodox Christians gathered at the parish of St. Catherine’s in Malvern for a powerful spiritual presentation. The event, part of the Melbourne Diocesan Youth Fellowship initiative, is aimed at encouraging youth across the Diocese of Melbourne to grow in their faith and deepen their spiritual understanding. The gathering offered a unique opportunity to explore the challenging yet transformative role of illness and suffering in the life of faith.

The evening began with the faithful attending the Great Compline service, followed by a communal dinner, where the youth, prepared a delicious chickpea curry, fostering both community and spiritual nourishment. After dinner, Dr. Brian and the Rev Fr. Panteleimon Laskaris from the parish of Sts Constantine & Helen in South Yarra offered profound insights on the intersection of suffering and spirituality.

Dr. Brian, a respected medical professional, began by posing thought-provoking questions to the youth, such as: “Why does God allow suffering?” and “What is the purpose of life, and how does suffering fit into it?”

Dr. Brian explained that suffering, while challenging our desire to live life to the fullest, is an integral part of our journey of reconnection with God. Dr. Brian shared moving examples of how suffering can either strengthen spirituality or lead to doubt in God’s plan. One example involved a child comforting parents during their struggle with brain cancer, demonstrating the strength that comes from faith. Another story focused on a cardiac arrest survivor, revived after being clinically dead for an hour, who experienced profound healing and a strengthened faith.

Dr. Brian emphasised the transformative nature of suffering, noting that while it may challenge us, it ultimately helps us focus on what truly matters and contributes to our spiritual regeneration. He highlighted that trusting in God elevates us through His Grace, helping us overcome our passions.

Father Panteleimon took the stage to share spiritual insights about the purpose and meaning of illness and suffering. He reminded the youth that life extends beyond earthly existence and that our response to suffering is crucial. Illness should be viewed not as a burden but as an opportunity for spiritual growth.

He noted that adversity is inevitable for all, either personally or through family, and the key question is how we respond. Acceptance of suffering, rather than resistance, is essential for spiritual growth. Father Panteleimon also shared that illness and suffering help bring us closer to God, aiding in our salvation.

Father Panteleimon also emphasised the importance of evangelism through action, rather than just words. In times of adversity, our actions speak louder than our words, and our faith becomes a testimony of God’s presence. The Church, he reminded the youth, provides essential tools for spiritual support, including sacraments, prayers, and the Eucharist.

The evening was made all the more special by the presence of His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, who encouraged the youth to reflect on the messages shared and to apply them in their daily lives. Father George Adamakis, the parish priest of St. Catherine’s, also attended and highlighted the importance of such discussions in the spiritual growth of the community.