Melbourne: Pascha Family Activity Day hosted at the Church of the Archangels in Mentone
On Saturday, 5th April 2025, the Church of the Archangels in Mentone welcomed over 200 children from across the Diocese of Melbourne for the annual Pascha Family Activity Day. His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, who graciously welcomed the attendees, joined in the joyful celebration of this pre-Paschal event, designed to engage children and families in the rich traditions of the Orthodox faith.
The day was filled with a variety of activities that not only entertained but also taught the young ones about the significance of Pascha and the deep spiritual traditions of the Orthodox Church. Among the activities were egg dyeing, a time-honored tradition that symbolizes the resurrection of Christ, as well as learning how to weave Palm Crosses, a cherished custom associated with the celebration of Palm Sunday.
The children also had the opportunity to try their hand at writing icons, an ancient craft that allows them to connect with the beauty and reverence of Orthodox sacred art. As they engaged in these activities, they were guided by parish volunteers and clergy who shared stories of Pascha and its profound meaning in the life of the Church.
One of the highlights of the day was the baking of Easter sweets, where the children learned to prepare traditional treats such as koulourakia and other festive pastries. This activity, led by experienced parish bakers, was not only fun but also a reminder of the importance of fasting, prayer, and celebration during the Lenten period leading up to Pascha.
His Grace Bishop Kyriakos took time to speak with the children and their families, conveying the wishes and blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and words of encouragement. “This is a beautiful day to come together as a community and prepare for the great feast of Pascha,” His Grace said. “Through these activities, we are not only learning the traditions of our faith but also creating memories that will help us pass on these customs to the next generation. Let us remember that Pascha is not just about the eggs and sweets, but about the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, which gives us hope and joy in our lives.”
The Pascha Family Activity Day was a testament to the growing and vibrant Orthodox community in Melbourne, bringing together families from across the Diocese to celebrate the upcoming Paschal feast. The children’s faces lit up with joy as they participated in each activity, learning not just the practical skills, but also the deeper significance behind these Paschal customs.
As the day came to a close, families left the Church of the Archangels filled with joy and anticipation for the upcoming Paschal celebration. The Pascha Family Activity Day not only provided a fun and educational experience for the children but also strengthened the sense of community, as families prepared together for the glorious feast of the Resurrection of Christ.
This wonderful event showcased the importance of passing on Orthodox traditions to the next generation, ensuring that the faith continues to thrive in the hearts of the youth. The Church of the Archangels and the Diocese of Melbourne continue to foster a strong, vibrant community where both young and old can grow in faith and love.
