The memory of Saint Spyridon the Wonderworker, Bishop of Trimythus, was celebrated with splendor at the Parish of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia in the suburb of Kingsford, Sydney.
Metropolitan Myron of New Zealand presided over the Divine Liturgy with the blessing of Archbishop Makarios of Australia. The Hierarchical Head, Fr. Stylianos Skoutas, although he was recently hospitalized and underwent a leg surgery, attended the celebration of the Protector of the Parish, praying together from the Holy Altar. Metropolitan Myron was accompanied by Fr. Stavros Ivanos, as well as Fr. Dimitrios Karakiozis and Fr. Meletios Pantic, Abbot of the Holy Monastery of Archangels in New Zealand.
During his sermon, the Metropolitan of New Zealand reflected on the multitude of virtues that defined the esteemed Saint, focusing notably on his simplicity, humility, and profound faith in God. Although Saint Spyridon lacked scholarly knowledge, the Metropolitan highlighted his possession of divine knowledge—the sanctifying understanding that leads us into God’s eternal kingdom.
Saint Spyridon’s sanctity became evident when he assumed the role of Bishop in the Metropolis of Trimythus. “Holiness isn’t concealed; it resonates through silence, obscurity, and humility,” emphasized the Metropolitan. “Each of us is called to pursue this purpose, the very reason for which God has bestowed upon us the divine gift of life.”
Speaking with heartfelt concern for the Orthodox community in the Pacific Islands, the Metropolitan of New Zealand stressed, “We serve these souls without assuming superiority or holding something beyond their reach. These people, in their simplicity and lack, find immense joy.
They acknowledge their weaknesses and humbleness, yet they delight in their existence and the gifts bestowed upon them by God. Our role as a Church is merely to guide them, showing them to whom they should express their gratitude. They don’t praise the earth, the sun, or the air they breathe; they don’t venerate idols or false deities.
Instead, they direct their gratitude to God, the ultimate Creator and Giver of everything. Our contributions—be it monetary, resources sent, dedicated time, or gifts—to the new Orthodox Church of the Pacific Islands all serve as expressions of gratitude to the Lord. Through these acts, we cultivate holiness.”
In conclusion, Metropolitan Myron thanked Archbishop Makarios of Australia for his permission and blessing to officiate at the celebrating Parish of St. Spyridon, as well as the priests Fr. Stylianos and Fr. Stavros for their warm hospitality and love.
