On Sunday, 7 December, during his visit to the Parish of Saint Nicholas in Marrickville, Sydney, Archbishop Makarios of Australia had the joy of participating in a modest yet heartwarming celebration hosted by the Parish’s Preschool Group, marking the graduation of children who will be moving on to primary school.
The Preschool Group of Saint Nicholas Parish is one of fourteen such groups operating in various parts of Sydney under the organization and care of the Greek Welfare Centre of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. The Greek Welfare Centre — which this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of its establishment — serves as the Archdiocese’s primary social services arm. Among its many programs are the Preschool Groups, which together serve more than 220 children.
These groups offer children the opportunity to develop new skills through a wide range of creative activities, including crafts, singing, dancing, storytelling, and excursions. Because the program is bilingual, the children are also able to deepen their understanding of the Orthodox faith, Greek traditions, and the Greek language.
During the graduation ceremony for the children transitioning to the next stage of their education, Archbishop Makarios awarded the diplomas and, along with his paternal blessings and warm wishes, offered the young graduates commemorative gifts.
