Melbourne: The Blessing of the Waters and throwing of the Holy Cross at Port Melbourne

On Sunday, 12 January 2025, the Blessing of the Waters and the Throwing of the Holy Cross ceremony took place at Princes Pier, in Port Melbourne, Melbourne, as part of the celebration of the Feast of Epiphany. Despite the adverse weather conditions, mainly characterised by torrential rain, a large number of faithful believers came and participated in the service, while approximately 35 people dived into the waters to retrieve the Holy Cross.

His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora blessed the waters and threw the Cross, which was retrieved by 23-year-old Panagiotis Tasias, nephew of Fr. Stavros Kakavas, Parish Priest of the Church of Saints Anargyroi Oakleigh.

His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, read the message of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, for the feast of the Epiphany and conveyed to everyone the wishes and blessing of their Chief Shepherd.

A Greek festival followed, with music, dancing and traditional dishes. Souvlakia, Greek pastries, drinks and loukoumades were offered by the “Five Loaves” Initiative of the Holy Diocese of Melbourne. Food and drinks were also available from the ‘Daily Bread’ Food truck, while ice cream was also available.

Among the dignitaries who attended the celebration were Mr. Dimitrios Tsilikis, representative of the Consulate General of Greece in Melbourne, Mr. Brad Batten MP, Leader of the State Opposition, MP for Berwick, Ms. Katerina Theophanous MP, State Member for Northcote and Minister for Women’s Health, Ms. Nina Taylor MP, State Member for Albert Park and Minister for Education, Mr. David Davis MP, State Member for the Southern Metropolitan Region and Shadow Minister for Energy and Security, and Cr. Louise Crawford, Mayor of the City Council of Port Phillip.

Credit and warm thanks were given to all the volunteers from the Holy Diocese of Melbourne, who worked tirelessly and dedicatedly to organise the celebration.