On Tuesday the 28th of March 2023, the Greek Orthodox Day School of St Andrew’s Grammar in Perth WA held a special assembly to celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos and the 1821 Greek War of Independence. The assembly was held in the presence of Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea.
Bishop Elpidios opened the assembly with a special prayer and explained to the children the significance of the double celebration on the 25th of March. Bishop Elpidios emphasized the significance that the clergy (Patriarchs, Bishops, Priests, Deacons, and Monastics) played in the Greek War for Freedom, together with many other men and women, which reminds us of the important motto “For Faith and Country” and the inseparable relationship between our Greek heritage and our Orthodox Faith. Bishop Elpidios conveyed to all the staff, teachers, and students the love and blessings of Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
The students honored the dual commemorations with various hymns, poems, and dances. School Principal, Craig Monaghan, thanked the students for their wonderful performances and also thanked Bishop Elpidios and all the distinguished guests for attending.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Parish Priest Fr Terry Gerovasilis, presented to Bishop Elpidios a special gift of an engolpion of St Andrew the First-Called Apostle as a special thank-you for his 13 years of service teaching at the school and his ongoing support for all the school activities and programs. The special gift was given to Bishop Elpidios by the students on behalf of the entire school community as well as the Parishioners of Sts Constantine and Helene.
Also present at the assembly was the Consul for Greece in Perth, Georgia Karasiotou, President of the Hellenic Community, Paul Afkos OAM, as well as other clergy and official representatives.
