“When we preserve and pass on the heritage of our ancestors, we can be confident in securing a bright future. This heritage, rooted in Greek values and our Orthodox faith, with Jesus Christ at its center, provides a strong foundation for our students to excel. It allows them to dream big, to fight with confidence and resilience, because their faith grants them wings. Through the love of Christ and the abundance of life He offers, they will know His fullness,” said Archbishop Makarios of Australia during his warm address.
His remarks were made at a celebratory event marking the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Saint George College in Adelaide, which took place on Saturday evening, September 21. The Archbishop’s speech emphasized the vital role of Greek Orthodox education in nurturing future generations.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Bishop Silouan of Adelaide, South Australian Premier Peter Malinuaskas, and other political figures. Also present were key members of the Saint George community: Vasileios Terzis, President of the Parish – Community of Saint George; clergy members Fr. Diogenis Patsouris and Fr. Konstantinos Skoumbourdis; Emmanouil Katsidonis, President of the College’s Board of Directors; Epaminondas Karamoschos, the College’s Director; and Kostas Barkoukis, Chairman of the Parents and Friends Committee.
At the start of his speech, Archbishop Makarios paid tribute to the late Bishop of Christianopolis, Paul, acknowledging the Church’s mourning over his loss while reaffirming the hope found through faith in eternal life. This faith, he said, propels the Church’s ongoing sacred mission.
Archbishop Makarios also praised Mr. Katsidonis, the Board of Directors, and Mr. Karamoschos, along with their associates, teachers, and staff, for their unwavering commitment to the College’s success. He extended special thanks to Fathers Diogenes and Konstantinos for their dedicated service to the Saint George school community, and he expressed gratitude to the parents who entrusted their children’s education to the College.
In conclusion, Archbishop Makarios offered his heartfelt wishes for Saint George College, which he described as a “gem” of Adelaide, to continue its prosperous journey for many more decades.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
