The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia 2024 HSC Awards Ceremony
On Tuesday 18 February 2025, our beloved Primate, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia hosted ‘The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia 2024 HSC Awards Ceremony’, at the Great Hall of Saint Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College. This annual event celebrates academic excellence and recognises the academic achievement of the students of the Greek Orthodox Day Schools of New South Wales – Saint Spyridon College, Saint Euphemia College and All Saints Grammar, in the Higher School Certificate Examinations.
The Great Hall was filled to capacity as His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, His Grace Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia, The Consul General of Greece in Sydney Mr Ioannis Malikourtis, the reverend clergy, the esteemed principals and representatives of the School Boards of Saint Spyridon College, Saint Euphemia College and All Saints Grammar, students of our Day Schools and their families gathered to honour the students who excelled in the 2024 Higher School Certificate Examinations.
Following the opening prayer by His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, and the welcome by Mrs Jasmin Mano (Deputy Principal of Saint Euphemia College) and Mrs Penny Pachos (Principal of Saint Euphemia College), the Honourable Consul General Mr Malikourtis addressed the gathering, highlighting the virtue of seeking knowledge, but specifically, the need to learn the Greek language in order to maintain our Hellenic culture and ideals.
The students who achieved the various awards were then acknowledged for their outstanding performance, and received the corresponding certificates, personally signed by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios.
Following the recognition and awarding of the students, His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis read the Message of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios to the students. In his inspirational message through which he expressed his heartfelt congratulations, love and pride as their spiritual father, Archbishop Makarios praised the students for their excellent achievements, and offered wise counsel, saying among other things, “At this moment, as you stand on the threshold of adulthood, filled with aspirations and dreams, I offer you one fundamental piece of advice: never forget God. In the busyness of life, as responsibilities increase and ambitions drive you forward, it is easy to lose sight of your spiritual roots. But remember, it is God who gives meaning and direction to our lives. If we build our future without Him, we build upon sand. Our Orthodox faith is not merely a cultural identity; it is the foundation upon which our lives must be built.”
He continued, “the world will offer you many paths, but not all will lead to true happiness. Choose wisely, and let Christ be your compass. Success is not solely measured by wealth, status, or accolades. True success is found in a life lived with purpose, humility, and love. The world often measures achievement in material terms, but in the eyes of God, the most successful person is the one who lives righteously, serves others selflessly, and remains steadfast in their faith.”
The formalities concluded with the customary photographs and the blessing of the supper graciously offered in celebration of the students’ achievements.
