The Parish of Saint Spyridon in Kingsford, Sydney, received a distinguished guest on Thursday, March 28, as the Deputy Minister of Interior of Greece, Theodoros Livanios, paid a visit accompanied by Archbishop Makarios of Australia. This visit coincided with Deputy Minister Livanios’ official trip to Australia to commemorate the Anniversary of the Greek Revolution of 1821.
Saint Spyridon Parish, renowned for its vibrant Greek Orthodox community, warmly welcomed the delegation.
The Deputy Minister engaged with the Parish and the Greek Diaspora in Sydney, visiting St. Spyridon’s College, the first Greek Orthodox daily College in Australia.
Upon their arrival at the Church of Saint Spyridon, Archbishop Makarios and Deputy Minister Livanios, along with the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, were greeted by Parish President Elias Economou, Hierarchical Head Fr. Stylianos Skoutas, priest Fr. Stavros Ivanos, and College Director Emilia Katsogianni. Deputy Minister Livanios received a comprehensive overview of the Parish’s work and activities during his tour of the premises.
The visit culminated at St. Spyridon College Primary School, where Harmony Week celebrations were in full swing, showcasing Australia’s multiculturalism. Students and teachers welcomed the guests with heartfelt renditions of the National Anthems of Greece and Australia, as well as the Apolytikion of Saint Paisios the Athonite, Protector of Australia and the Holy Archdiocese.
Touched by the warm reception, Archbishop Makarios addressed the students, sharing insights into the life and virtues of Saint Paisios and offering paternal advice. Deputy Minister Livanios, equally moved and thrilled by his interaction with the Greek children, disclosed plans for Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ upcoming visit to Australia. He promised to convey his positive experiences, advocating for the inclusion of Saint Spyridon Parish and College in the Prime Minister’s itinerary.
Expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended, Deputy Minister Livanios commended the Parish’s leadership for its commendable efforts and personally thanked Archbishop Makarios for his dedicated service to Orthodoxy and Hellenism in Australia.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
