On the Sunday before Christmas, Bishop Bartholomew of Charioupolis, Archdiocesan Vicar of Canberra, visited the Parish – Community of Saints Raphael, Nicholas and Irini in Liverpool, Sydney, where he had served as a priest for more than five years.
The Bishop officiated the Orthros and presided over the Divine Liturgy.
At the end of the Divine Liturgy, the Hierarchical Head, Fr. Asterios Zouriakas, welcomed the Bishop of Charioupolis and spoke about his contribution to the Parish all the previous years.
He referred to his hard work, devotion, love and patience that distinguished the Bishop and wished him all the best in his new duties.
In his reply, the Bishop of Charioupolis thanked Fr. Asterios for his kind words, and he also thanked Archbishop Makarios of Australia for the opportunity given to him to officiate in the Parish of Liverpool.
Addressing the congregation, he asked everyone to follow Christ, coming to Church more, praying more and loving more. In addition, the Bishop stressed the importance of forgiveness and showing compassion to all.
After the Divine Liturgy, Bishop Bartholomew had the opportunity to personally communicate with the faithful in the parish hall, in a simple event held in his honor, while receiving an icon as a gift from the Parish for his election and ordination as Bishop.
The Bishop of Charioupolis warmly thanked everyone, while he wished Merry Christmas and a Happy New Yea with health and safety, on behalf of Archbishop Makarios.