On Sunday, January 14, following the Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saints Athanasios and Nicholas in Labasa, Fiji, Fr. Michael Psarommatis, a guest clergyman of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia, performed the Blessing of the Waters and the Diving of the Holy Cross on the beach of Korovou. The clergyman was accompanied by the priest of the local parish of Labasa, Fr. Alexios Nand. The newly enlightened parishioners and catechumens of the distant and isolated Orthodox community participated in and celebrated the service.
A celebratory meal followed, with everyone enjoying dishes prepared by members of the parish. Throughout the day, the priests and Presbytera Stavroula Psarommati continued the adult catechism classes being held in Labasa.
Concluding the day of festivities, Father Michael conveyed the paternal wishes of Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand for a hopeful, joyful, and creative New Year.
Translated by Thanos Chrysanthopoulos
