Tribute to the Heroes of the Epic of 1940 at the Holy Diocese of Chora

The Church of Our Lady ‘Axion Esti’, in Northcote, Melbourne, was the focus of events for the anniversary of 28 October 1940 in the Holy Diocese of Chora, in Victoria.

In the presence of many members of the Greek community, who came to honour the courage and determination shown by the Greeks during the heroic “NO” and the Epic of ’40, a Divine Liturgy was first celebrated on the feast of the Holy Protection of the Theotokos (Agia Skepi), and was presided over by His Grace Bishop Evmenios of Chora, and then a Doxology Service for the national anniversary was also conducted by Bishop Evmenios.

Bishop Evmenios, speaking to the congregation, after conveying the wishes and blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, reminded everyone of the great heritage and the lessons that the brave stance of the Greek people leaves to the younger ones, as reflected in the “NO” of 28 October 1940. “This day reminds us that faith, endurance and love for our neighbour give us the strength to face every challenge,” His Grace noted, among other things.

This was followed by everyone’s movement to the monument located in the surrounding area of the Holy Monastery of Our Lady ‘Axion Esti’, where a wreath-laying ceremony took place, organised by the Australian Greek Ex-Servicemen’s Association. Representatives of many Greek organisations laid wreaths, honouring the memory of the heroes of 1940 and highlighting the unity and resilience of the Greek community.