The Feast Day of Saint Barbara the Great Martyr in the Holy Diocese of Chora

On Tuesday and Wednesday, 3rd and 4th of December 2024, the Parish of Saint Paraskevi of the Holy Diocese of Chora, in the Melbourne suburb of St Albans, honoured with particular splendour the memory of Saint Barbara the Great Martyr. Both during Vespers, which was officiated by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, and during the Divine Liturgy, where His Grace also presided, the faithful flocked with reverence to pray and venerate the holy relics of Saint Barbara that are kept in the Holy Church.

During the Holy Services, His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora conveyed to everyone the blessings and love of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia. In his sermon, His Grace highlighted key aspects of the life of Saint Barbara, connecting her indomitable courage and faith with the challenges facing Christians in today’s era.

His Grace reminded the faithful of Saint Barbara’s courage in the face of difficulties, her refusal to deny Christ despite persecution, and her steadfast witness to the truth of the Gospel. He urged everyone to draw inspiration from her example, especially during this period of fasting for the Feast of Christmas, preparing their hearts for the feast of the Nativity of Christ.

The feast day concluded with the veneration of the holy relics of Saint Barbara, with the faithful asking for her intercession for their strengthening in faith and guidance in their lives.