Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew officiated during the Divine Liturgy at the Holy Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos, Panagia Balino, on Sunday, 17 November 2024. This church houses a Sacred Spring dedicated to the Holy Great Martyr Menas, and the Patriarch had led the opening ceremony for its renovation a year prior.
Also in attendance were Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Grace Bishop Adrianos of Halicarnassus, Archons of the Great Church of Christ, the Ambassador Mr. Milton Nikolaidis, and Mr. Byron Nikolaidis, a Grand Benefactor of the Church. Expatriates, local believers, and pilgrims from abroad also joined the service.
The Holy Sermon was delivered by Patriarchal Deacon Father Evlogios Tsatsas, emphasizing the importance of living out the teachings of the Gospel.
In his post-Liturgy address, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew highlighted the need to not just learn, but to live out the word of God. He stressed the significance of applying faith in daily life, rather than simply acquiring knowledge.
The Patriarch expressed gratitude for the dedication and service of all those involved in the church community, including Bishop Adrianos of Halicarnassus, Mr. Symeon Soltaridis, and Mr. Byron Nikolaidis. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the clergy and community leaders, praising their good intentions and selfless efforts.
Patriarch Bartholomew also commended Archbishop Makarios of Australia for his faithful leadership over the past five years, particularly during the centenary celebrations of the Archdiocese of Australia. He thanked Archbishop Makarios and his colleagues for their hospitality during his recent visit to Australia.
The Patriarch expressed that the missionary journey was truly unforgettable and will always hold a special place in their hearts. He encouraged the Archbishop of Australia to continue moving forward and upward during the second centenary of the Holy Archdiocese, emphasizing the importance of progress and growth for the Christians in Australia. The Patriarch thanked everyone for their efforts and sacrifices, urging them to continue their annual pilgrimages. He also welcomed pilgrims from abroad and honored the memory of a young boy who had bravely fought against cancer. The Patriarch performed a Trisagion Memorial Service for the boy and offered condolences to his parents. The event was captured in photographs by Nikos Papachristou. Please rephrase this sentence.
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