On Sunday, July 21, Archbishop Makarios of Australia, accompanied by Bishop Siluan of Adelaide, presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Church of St. George the Trophy Bearer in Port Pirie, South Australia. This special service celebrated the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Parish-Community of St. George, the first Greek Orthodox Parish in the State of South Australia.
In a joyful and festive atmosphere, the congregation commemorated this significant milestone. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Makarios bestowed the Offikion of Archimandrite upon Hieromonk Achillios Karamanidis, who has faithfully served the Parish for fifteen years. In his address, the Archbishop highlighted Fr. Achillios’s dedication, noting his service roles as a sexton, chanter, commissioner, and ultimately, vicar of the Church of St. George.
“He served the Church with much love and self-sacrifice,” the Archbishop stated. “From the depths of our hearts, we exclaimed ‘Axios!’ because he is truly a clergyman, to whom the Gospel perfectly applies the phrase: ‘In whom no deceit is found.’ He is a blessed man, simple, humble, and dedicated to the glory of God and the salvation of people.”
Archbishop Makarios wished Fr. Achillios strength and health, emphasizing that his recognition honors all members of the Parish-Community of St. George. He acknowledged their efforts and the challenges they face in maintaining their faith, language, customs, and traditions in a relatively isolated area. The Archbishop also extended his warm congratulations to President Fotios Seindanis and the Board of Directors for their tireless work in keeping the flame of Orthodoxy and Hellenism alive in Port Pirie.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a festive luncheon was held, allowing Archbishop Makarios to personally engage with the Parish-Community members, listen to their thoughts, and address their concerns.
This celebration not only marked a century of faith and service but also reinforced the enduring commitment of the Greek Orthodox Church to its faithful, even in remote regions.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
