With great solemnity and an atmosphere of spiritual joy and reverence, the Parish of Saints Basil and George in the suburb of Islington, in the city of Newcastle, celebrated its patronal feast, gathering a large number of parishioners and pilgrims from across Newcastle and Sydney.
The Festal Divine Liturgy was celebrated in Greek, English, and Ukrainian, highlighting both the rich Orthodox heritage and the inclusive, multicultural spirit of the parish. The service was presided over by Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Saint George in Yellow Rock, who represented Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
Concelebrating with the Bishop were Fr. Nikolaos Skordilis and Fr. Markos Donellis from the neighboring Parish of the Holy Apostles in Hamilton, as well as Fr. Savvas Pizania, who is currently serving temporarily at the Parish of Saints Basil and George, ministering with dedication to the pastoral needs of the faithful.
Following the dismissal of the Divine Liturgy, the traditional procession of the holy icon of Saint Basil took place around the church, offering a visible witness of faith and thanksgiving within the local community.
The celebration reaffirmed the parish’s role as a vibrant spiritual home, uniting Orthodox faithful of different backgrounds in prayer, worship, and shared joy.
