On Wednesday evening, 26 November 2025, an open panel and forum discussion was held at the historic Church of Saints Constantine and Helene in Perth.
The evening was led by Bishop Elpidios of Perth, who offered a spiritually rich and deeply contemplative reflection to commence the gathering.
Bishop Elpidios spoke with profound pastoral warmth on the Christian struggle against sin, temptation, hardships, turmoil, and grief, guiding the faithful to view every life challenge through the lens of eschatology. He emphasised that all difficulties and burdens are ultimately illumined by the promise of eternal life—won for us through our Lord’s saving Passion, His life-giving Cross, and His glorious Resurrection.
Joining Bishop Elpidios on the panel were two esteemed clergymen of the Holy Diocese: Archimandrite Makarios Souris, Abbot of the Holy Monastery of St John in Forrestfield, and Father Emmanuel Stamatiou, Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne and Parish Priest of the Church of the Annunciation in West Perth.
Throughout the evening, the faithful engaged in thoughtful and sincere conversation, raising a wide range of questions to Bishop Elpidios and the clergy. The participants drew great inspiration from the wisdom offered and from the unique pastoral perspectives shared by each member of the panel.
In closing, Bishop Elpidios expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Fr Terry Gerovasilis for his outstanding initiative in organising the event, and to all in attendance for their presence and active participation. He conveyed the paternal blessings and love of Archbishop Makarios of Australia, praying that the evening’s reflection would strengthen the spiritual lives of all who participated.
