The memory of St. Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, the Wonderworker, was celebrated in the parish of Yarraville, Victoria.
On the eve and on the day of the feast, dozens of believers gathered at the Holy Temple of Saint Nicholas, in accordance with the rules to prevent the spread of the pandemic, in order to pay their respects to the Icon of the Saint and participate in worship events in His honor. On Saturday afternoon the Festive Vespers was celebrated, while on Sunday morning the Archiepiscopal Vicar of Northcote, Archimandrite Evmenios Vasilopoulos presided over the Matins and the Divine Liturgy.
Fr. Evmenios, speaking to the congregation, briefly described the life of Saint Nicholas, focusing on His devotion to the Church and His sacrificial love for his neighbor. As he pointed out, the life of Saint Nicholas is an example to be imitated by modern Christians, as well as a reminder, in view of the approaching Christmas, that during this festive period we must take care not only of our own needs, but also of those of our caring and suffering fellow humans.
Afterwards, Fr. Evmenios referred to the many new programs implemented by the local Church throughout Australia, which offer the opportunity to lend a helping hand to people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. In every state across Australia, as he pointed out, there are many Christmas initiatives and ongoing programs that meet the basic needs of our fellow humans, from food distribution programs to support programs for people with addiction problems.
Source: vema.com.au
