In a deeply reverent atmosphere, amidst the presence of numerous clergy and devout believers, the first Vespers of Holy and Great Lent was solemnly celebrated on the afternoon of Sunday, March 17, at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Sydney. Archbishop Makarios of Australia presided over the Vespers of Forgiveness, while Bishops Iakovos of Militoupolis, Christodoulos of Magnesia, and Bartholomew of Charioupolis attended prayerfully the service.
At the conclusion of the service, the Archbishop delivered an address on the significance of embarking on the journey of Great Lent. He began by delving into the hymn “Thy hand has shone, O Lord, the illumination of our souls has shone,” sung during the Vespers, emphasizing the call to engage in “works of light,” as they are infused with the presence of Christ and the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Next, he enumerated the prerequisites for our spiritual readiness leading up to the celebration of the Resurrection of the Lord, highlighting the significance of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of refraining from criticism and maintaining inner peace among our fellow human beings. “Set this goal for Holy and Great Lent,” he noted, “to avoid judgment against your neighbor.” “When we judge our neighbors and hurt them with our words, we disrupt their peace,” he pointed out.
In conclusion, Archbishop Makarios extended wishes for a fruitful spiritual struggle to everyone present. Following the tradition of the Church, he exchanged the kiss of love and forgiveness with the attending bishops, clergy members, and faithful.
