The Synaxis of Saint John the Forerunner in the Diocese of Perth
The feast day of the Synaxis of Saint John the Baptist and Forerunner was celebrated on Tuesday the 7th of January 2025 at the Holy Monastery of Saint John in the Diocese of Perth.
His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Perth officiated at the Hierarchical Matins and Divine Liturgy and conveyed to all the blessings and love of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia..
In his sermon, His Grace spoke about the feast of the Synaxis of Saint John and focused on the saint’s humility saying:
“One of the most remarkable aspects of St. John’s life was his humility. When Jesus came to him for baptism, St. John recognised that he was unworthy of this task, saying, “I need to be baptised by You, and do You come to me?” (Matthew 3:14). John knew that Jesus was the sinless Son of God, and yet, he humbly accepted the Lord’s request, saying, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15).
This humble obedience of Saint John is an example for us all. It reminds us that true greatness in the kingdom of God is not found in self-promotion or personal glory, but in humility, submission and surrendering to the will of God”.
His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Perth informed the congregation of his forthcoming departure for Sydney and how on Sunday the 19th of January all the Regional and Assistant Bishops of our Holy Archdiocese will be partaking in the first Synodical Liturgy on the feast day of Saint Makarios the Great of Egypt and which will be Presided by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
Following the service, a brunch was held in the monastery’s refectory.
