On Thursday, October 22, Bishop Elpidios of Kyanes, assisted by Father Eleftherios Gerovasilis and Father Milorad Soaktar, performed the doxology for the graduation of the students of the third grade of St. Andrew’s Grammar School.
As reported by vema.com.au, the doxology took place at the Church of Saints Constantine and Helen in the presence of all students, their families, school staff and other guests.
The Bishop conveyed to the students the paternal blessing and the wishes of Archbishop Makarios of Australia, as well as his advice his message:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, for the Lord, your God, is with you. He will not leave you and will not abandon you. I want to share with you these words from the Old Testament, along with my blessing and best wishes for the final exams that you will begin very soon. It has been a very adverse year with the restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Nevertheless, you realize that it is our Lord Jesus Christ who rules our lives as long as we turn to Him and ask for His help. So do not be afraid. There is no room for fear for God’s people. We have a loving Father and a merciful Mother, the Virgin Mary. Pray to them and ask them to be with you. Do your best: aim high and study hard. But as your Archbishop and Spiritual Father, I want to remind you that the most important measure of success is how close we are to Jesus Christ. Without Him, worldly achievements have no significance. Only what lasts in eternity has substance, can make a difference and can transform our daily lives and that of those around us. Keep Him in the equation of your life and in your relationships. My dear children, face the challenge before you with courage and confidence. I wholeheartedly convey to you my support and my personal prayers for your success. Success in your exams, but also success in the choices you make regarding your personal relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. Stay strong! May God give you strength and bless you all.”
It is noted that Saint Andrew’s Grammar School was founded in 1991 by the Greek Community of Western Australia and is the only day Greek Orthodox school in Western Australia.