MARCH 2007 2/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Letter to the Editor SUPPORT FOR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW ON MULTICULTURALISM Dear Editor then to support the unChristian assault on Yet our people number very few amongst the rich cultural diversity that has made the lists of Australian honour recipients, I read with great interest our Archbishop’s Australia so well respected around the members of Boards of Directors, ap- statements on multiculturalism in different world. pointees to government boards and such... newspapers including VEMA and in partic- Our Archbishop has rightly sought to stem due to the Anglo Saxon Celtic nature of ular his response to “attacks” on multicul- the tide against such assaults but sadly the Australia that some in politics errantly turalism by Prime Minister Howard and his rest of the community including our own defend. government. has failed to jump up and support him Archbishop Stylianos is right to defend Sadly, these attacks do not appear to be Hellenes have lived in Australia from multiculturalism but it is time that this com- isolated and at a recent Human Rights con- shortly after the First Fleet arrived, some munity lead was not standing out front all ference, Barry Jones stated that he believed 200 years. My own great grandfather alone. firmly that a major attack on multicultural- arrived in the 1920s and over the years 29 March 1973 ism was on the way. countless numbers of Hellenes have settled U.S. withdraws from Vietnam Perhaps worse, the number of high profile in Australia and helped to make it a great Ange Kenos ethnic Australians who appear now and nation. Niddrie VIC Two months after the signing of the Vietnam peace agreement, the last U.S. combat troops leave South Vietnam as Hanoi frees the remaining American pris- 17th-century icon identified oners of war held in North Vietnam. A previously unidentified 17th-century icon depicting scenes from the saint's life. America's direct eight-year intervention in of John the Baptist kept at a parish church in According to Konstantina Skarmoutsou, the Vietnam War was at an end. In Saigon, Kranidi, southeast of Nafplio, has been director of the 25th Ephorate of Byzantine some 7,000 U.S. Department of Defense attributed to Emmanuel Tzanes (Bounialis), Antiquities, Tzanes' work points to his "ded- civilian employees remained behind to one of the most significant Cretan religious ication to Byzantine tradition and the bor- aid South Vietnam in conducting what painters of the second half of the 17th centu- rowing of elements from Italian Renais- looked to be a fierce and ongoing war ry. The icon was discovered during restora- sance". Some 120 known works by Tzanes with communist North Vietnam. tion work. have survived, half of which bear his signa- 30 March 198 "This is the first time that the icon has been ture. President Reagan shot officially registered, complete with painter, Following a thorough study and restoration date and signature details," Culture Minister by specialists, the icon will be returned to its On March 30, 1981, President Ronald George Voulgarakis told the press on place of worship in Kranidi. Reagan is shot in the chest outside a February 28. Washington, D.C., hotel by a deranged Dating back to 1646, the 1.22x1.03 icon, Athens News drifter named John Hinckley Jr. which is now protected by bullet-proof glass, The president had just finished addressing was cased in silver in 1760. In it, the ascetic A Greek Orthodox priest passes by a newly a labor meeting at the Washington Hilton figure of John the Baptist - portrayed stand- discovered religious icon of John the Baptist Hotel and was walking with his entourage ing - is framed by 12 miniature illustrations dating back to 1646 to his limousine when Hinckley, standing among a group of reporters, fired six shots Ancient Sparta's warriors at the president, hitting Reagan and three Neolithic settlements of his attendants. White House Press unearthed Secretary James Brady was shot in the return home for Persian war epic head and critically wounded, Secret in northern Greece Service agent Timothy McCarthy was shot in the side, and District of Columbia policeman Thomas Delahaney was shot in the neck. After firing the shots, Hinckley was overpowered and pinned against a wall.

31 March 1889 Eiffel Tower opens

On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower is dedicated in Paris in a ceremony presided over by Gustave Eiffel, the tower's designer, and attended by French Prime Minister Pierre Tirard, a handful of other dignitaries, and 200 construction workers. Archaeologists in northern Greece revea- In 1889, to honor of the centenary of the Nearly 2,500 years after they marched off whelming Persian odds at Thermopylae, and led recently they have uncovered traces of French Revolution, the French govern- to certain death in one of history's greatest based on a comic book series by US artist prehistoric settlements, some dating back ment planned an international exposition last stands, the warriors of ancient Sparta Frank Miller, the film has drawn criticism in 8,000 years. and announced a design competition for a were back in town recently for a final fight Greece for portraying the ancient Spartans as The settlements were unearthed in a monument to be built on the Champ-de- before the home crowd. bloodthirsty berserkers. region surrounded by four lakes - Mars in central Paris. Out of more than The film's heavily fictionalised approach, Vegoritida, Heimaditida, Petron and Zazari 100 designs submitted, the Centennial Wielding spears and heavy shields, the war- which shows the Spartans battling wild - between the towns of Kozani and Florina, Committee chose Eiffel's plan of an open- riors rampaged through a new Hollywood beasts, giants and fang-toothed men has also 160 km west of Thessaloniki, archaeolo- lattice wrought-iron tower that would epic on the Battle of Thermopylae - the stand raised objections among Greek film critics, gists said at the end of a three-day annual reach almost 1,000 feet above Paris and that blunted the Persian Empire's invasion in who called it a "video game" that debases one archaeology conference in Thessaloniki. be the world's tallest man-made structure. 480 BC - to the amazement of modern of Western history's key battles. Excavations, which began in September Eiffel, a noted bridge builder, was a mas- Spartans watching a special premiere of the "The Spartans face not the army of Xerxes 2003, have yielded 53 clay figurines, stone ter of metal construction and designed the movie in this small Peloponnese town. that we knew until now, but monsters that tools, fossilised lentils as well as traces of framework of the Statue of Liberty that "Okay, the Spartans are portrayed as vi- seem to spring from the Star Wars universe small moats around what appeared to be had recently been erected in New York cious, but they were warriors after all," said and werewolf movies," wrote Eleftherotypia primitive dwellings. Harbor. Sparta Mayor Sarantos Antonakos. daily. Some 24 Neolithic settlements have been "I was afraid the movie would turn us into a "What, no Godzilla?" scoffed Ta Nea daily. discovered in the area since 2003 laughing-stock ... but it has no historical The film's about the Battle of Thermopylae The first traces of human settlement in errors," he told AFP. .. the stand that blunted the Persian Empire's Greece date back to at least 40,000 BC Titled 300, after the small contingent under invasion in 480 BC. AP King Leonidas of Sparta that faced over- 300 opens nationally in Australia on April 5. MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/21 Editorial

A dangerously charged climate expresses the general discontent of the rest of society about the But this is just one aspect of the problem. The rest involves unreliability and inefficiency of our political system and its a growing group of youngsters attracted by violence. By Stavros Lygeros institutions. Surges of violence cannot be curbed through police meas- The atmosphere is very heavily charged, the burden of ures alone. In the 1960s, the USA saw a massive surge in crim- In transforming a crisis into a spectacle, it is inevitable that youngsters’ anger very heavy. Opinion polls may show that inality, chiefly triggered by black residents of major cities. television channels will elevate the self-styled anarchists who ruling New Democracy enjoys a comfortable lead but the sit- President Lyndon B. Johnson said the solution was not to have been clashing with police over the past few weeks into uation is far more fragile than it seems. Even those fed up with arrest all poor blacks but to create a black middle class, to give protagonists. demonstrations and violence believe the government is partly them prospects. After all, these hooded anti-establishment protesters have all to blame and demand that it take the crisis in hand rather than This is what Greek youngsters lack. the necessary qualifications for a great career in our television allow forthcoming elections to influence its actions. In a society which dreams of large jeeps and country hous- democracy. They are faceless, dark, destructive, reckless, We are experiencing a unique sociopolitical crisis which will es, the youngster who feels he will never have these things gets tough fighting, with no political platform or ideological restric- spin out of all proportion if someone is seriously injured or mad. Post-junta cliches tell him that no one gets anywhere on tions and with a real zeal to vandalize all that is sacred. They killed in the increasingly violent protests. merit. In despair, these youngsters embrace a mythical status are, without a doubt, the bad guys. KATHIMERINI quo and release their pent-up tension on the street. And all this constitutes a very attractive model for certain What is missing is the vision of another Greece where citi- youngsters, chiefly those who feel suffocatingly trapped in a A country without a vision zens feel they have prospects and are not engulfed by Soviet- drab present with an uncertain future ahead of them, but also type delusions of security within the public sector. If our politi- the offspring of the middle classes who see an opportunity to By Alexis Papachelas cians fail to offer young Greeks something to believe in, it will rebel against everything they don’t like. not be long before the current phenomena of violence and dis- So there is no shortage of anti-establishment protesters. And Athens often resembles a content spiral out of control. over the years we have seen the development of a hard core of city in paralysis, or one held KATHIMERINI “professionals” who are well-organized and operate as fire hostage. starters during peaceful demonstrations. It is they who carry Public Order Minister Recreating problems out commando-style raids such as the recent one on the central Vyron Polydoras (photo) offices of the country’s main labor union. spoke of “urban guerrilla war- The National Technical University senate’s decision regard- The fact that successive governments have studiously avoid- fare,” offering rioters the ing the just-passed reform law would be of particular value ed the implementation of measures to disrupt these groups is myth they have been seeking. and a contribution to public debate were it not itself the prod- strong evidence that their existence is convenient for them. Synaspi-smos Left Coalition uct of the problems the law is designed to rectify. After all, all scenarios need bad guys. They activate the con- is following the retailer’s It is only in Greece that party youth group representatives servative reflexes of the public and spur them to demand law approach to politics, fishing vote for the university’s administration officials. We won’t and order. for votes without a care. even mention the charges of dealings between candidates for But today, there is something much larger and more signifi- Citizens are oscillating be- office and student bosses over various issues. The issue is that cant than television sensationalism and masked thugs. tween feelings of melancholy the environment of pressure and blackmail deters those who The real protagonist is the directionless student movement, and indignation. hold differing viewpoints - and they are not few - from to the creation of which Education Minister Marietta Meanwhile the education expressing them and shaking up the status quo. Giannakou herself has contributed. crisis is escalating. And we are not just talking about some 400 At Greek tertiary institutions, there is a vicious cycle that Behind the sweeping and often misguided demands of members of a few Athens-based gangs who have been attack- reproduces the same problems over and over. The previous protesting students, there is a much more far-reaching concern. ing riot police. These groups are continuing an “armed move- law allowed for a network of vested interests that forced uni- Indeed, today’s crisis is only partly about education. It has ment” which has always had support in Parliament and the versities to continually lower the bar. This vicious cycle must been provoked by chronic social contradictions and indirectly media. be broken.

Not only are we being mislead, we are also being misinformed. For example, an ABC Talking TV current affairs programme recently mentioned work relating to clean coal as though this is something of the future. Is it? Point Anyone travelling through regions contain- by Ann Coward ing power stations in Australia will be well aware that our scientists have made enor- mous progress in recent decades. Yet how I recycle, you recycle, much credit do they receive? When TV cameramen visit power stations they no I recycle you longer have chimneys bellowing black Funding the critical early work of brilliant investigations smoke, so what do they show us? The water The elections are upon us. By this time next vapour being released into the air from the searching for cures for cancers year, almost all the promises will have been curvaceous cooling towers. Do viewers put to rest and for most of us seemingly lit- realise it’s only water vapour? Probably not. tle will have altered. It’s times like these We don’t expect lies, yet those who are PO Box R185, Royal Exchange, NSW 1225 when a sense of humour is needed and I defacto educators of the population are Tel (02) 925 16188 offer the following for your amusement: my responsible for propagating untruths on a www.curecancer.org.au children have decided that the current regular basis. debates on drinking recycled sewerage have brought new meaning to the term ‘eau de Why? Is there always a political agenda? A world without cancer, nothing else toilette’! It would be all the more funny if it Some issues (like the attention-grabbing didn’t indicate that, tragically, we appear call to ban incandescent light globes) have unable to learn the lessons of history. big implications for our freedoms. Many Australia’s early cemeteries are testament times though, it’s simply muddled thinking THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek enough to the devastation, especially newspaper that leads to so much needless garbage outside Greece email: amongst children, of taking risks with VEMA [email protected] The Greek Australian being generated in the media. Take, for JULY 2006 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 In this issue... Our Primate’s View drinking water. POLITICAL ‘PARTIES’ example, the lady standing in a supermarket AND THE NATIONAL ‘WHOLE’ PAGE 5/23 aisle in a TV ad asking if we’ve all had our Leaders strike VEMA Although in Australia we boast a high level daily dietary supply of some bio-whatever. of general education, our knowledge (and It doesn’t seem to matter that we don’t 'mammoth' FOOD & WINE The oldest circulating that of politicians in general) of very basic Homemade know what it is, or what it does, but we get chocolate delights reform deal PAGE 17/35 The Prime Minister and state and territo- Australia. ry leaders have agreed upon a national "We should not forget that this requires reform agenda to boost productivity in continued national cooperation in the area of matters is quite poor. Most of our education the areas of health, education, business health," Mr Iemma said. the message that we must need that particu- regulation and infrastructure. "It's not for the next two to three years, Greek newspaper these are measures that are required for the There had been dispute over funding for next 20 to 30 years." the changes and how the benefits would be comes via the mass media, and the informa- measured and split between governments. World Cup bid But the deal has been finalised at today's lar product. Council of Australian Governments Mr Howard says he and the leaders have (COAG) meeting, which lasted for less than agreed to back a potential bid to host the three hours. 2018 soccer World Cup. The leaders have agreed to set up a nation- "All governments agreed enthusiastically tion contained within editorial and advertis- al reform council to oversee the changes. that if the national body, the Football outside Greece Prime Minister John Howard says an enor- Federation of Australia, put in a bid for the mous amount has been achieved at the meet- 2018 World Cup, then all governments ing. would support that bid and support that bid Prime Minister, John Howard "This has been another very constructive enthusiastically," he said. COAG meeting at which an enormous "It will deal with things that give us the ing content is confusing. We’re led to be- Italy wins amount has been achieved in a spirit of competitive edge in the world, like skills ... Daylight saving cooperation and a desire to get practical and literacy," he said. Ah, I can already picture the social pages of World Cup results for the Australian people," he said. The Prime Minister, John Howard, says "The major outcome has been agreement Health Victoria, New South Wales, the ACT and for the 4th time on a huge, indeed mammoth national reform Tasmania have agreed to look at synchronis- Tel: (02) 9559 7022 agenda." Mr Iemma says the reforms include a $4 ing the start of daylight saving each year. lieve, for example, that biodegradable prod- PAGE 20/38 Mr Howard says the establishment of the billion, five-year mental health national "I think a modest step can be made forward the future: trendsetters, skin tinged by the reform council is the most important deci- action plan for services, accommodation and towards greater uniformity in that area and sion made by the leaders. better support. Victoria has indicated its broad agreement," He says the Federal Government will dele- He says the plan looks at ways to spend Mr Howard said. gate a chair and the states will decide on a mental health funding more effectively. "New South Wales will consider it. ucts are good for the environment. We don’t deputy. "It is about thinking smarter about the dol- "If it is agreed that New South Wales, "We will be asking the various members of lars that we have," Mr Iemma said. Victoria and the ACT will commence day- blue or yellow of energy-saving lights, a COAG to bring forward suggestions for Mr Howard says mental health "desperate- light saving earlier, that's a matter, I empha- reform," he said. ly needed more money". sise, for them." The state and territory leaders, including "People have been crying out for money for Tasmanian Premier Paul Lennon says it is New South Wales Premier Morris Iemma, mental health for quite a long time," he said. a positive step. Fax: (02) 9559 7033 stop to question if some things (such as have welcomed the agreement. "It's long overdue." "With the agreement of Victoria, New "It is all about providing more opportunity The package also includes increased public South Wales and the ACT to look at getting glass of eau de toilette in hand, enjoying for our citizens ... and we're very pleased health training. into the real world and joining Tasmania that we've reached a framework for that to That includes 150 extra training places for with extended daylight saving into the proceed," Mr Iemma said. doctors in Queensland, 60 more medical future, it is an important lifestyle reform," he Queensland Premier Peter Beattie says the school places in Western Australia and said. plastic bags) would be safer as they are, deal will bolster Australia's financial posi- another 60 to be shared by Adelaide "If you want to see a good lifestyle, just illicit earnings from selling hot incandes- tion. University and Flinders University in South have a look at Tasmania." uro Funeral Service E-mail: Children beaten rather than breaking down and releasing to- Eëëçíéêü Ïéêïãåíåéáêü Ãñáöåßï Ôåëåôþí [email protected] cent globes on the black(ed out) market. by loved ones Tel: (02) 9747 6604 PAGE 18/36 xins that pollute the soil and ground water. Available 24 hrs 114543 MARCH 2007 4/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Our Primate’s View

With some delay, due to a coincidence of other obligations, EKEME of Melbourne, given simultaneously (18-10-06) with two we return today to denounce once again, the populism to the point literally ‘Colossal’ organizations of cultural scope and quality: of derision and farce, exercised with regard to a specific official action that concerns us directly, and constitutes a reflection on 1. The Hellenic Institute of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Institutions and Foundations of our distant motherland which, unfor- Studies of Venice, Italy (directed by the eminent Professor tunately, as evidenced more and more each day, appears to have lost Chryssa Maltezou), not only her sense of what is correct but also of what is comical. 2. The Centre for Hellenic Studies, Harvard University, The case in mention relates to the entirely absurd and Washington, USA (directed by the Homeric Professor acutely scandalous prize issued by the Onassis Foundation to a Gregory Nagy, Department of Classics). ‘phantom’ institution ‘fabricated’ under the title ‘National Centre for Hellenic Studies and Research’ (‘EKEME’ in Greek) at La Trobe Reading carefully the comments which the ever pensive and University in Melbourne by TASOS TAMIS (otherwise known as thoroughly informed Editor of the cultural section ‘Biblia’ in the Anastasios Tamisoglou) who, for decades, has deceived, black- newspaper ‘Sunday VEMA of Athens’ (22-10-06), N. Bakounakis, mailed and taken advantage of our tormented people by various makes in reference to these three prizes for 2006, one cannot but means. observe a striking and vociferous antithesis: Whilst on the one hand As for the ‘gentleman’ in mention, we did not fail to he enumerates with justifiable enthusiasm the activities and the denounce him from the podium of the Clergy-Laity Congresses of acclaim afforded internationally to the eminent publications of both our Archdiocese and, in continuation, to publish the relevant facts in institutions (Harvard and Venice), on the other, Melbourne under Mr book-form. In doing so, our hope and aim was that, on the one hand, Tamis, is referred to by the ‘dry’ and, as we shall see later, long- the ‘deceived’ and ‘misled’ authorities of Greece and Cyprus might winded and whimsical title ‘National Centre for Hellenic Studies be informed, whilst on the other, that the audacious perpetrator and Research’ of the University of LA TROBE, Melbourne, directed might cease his erosive activity directly with uninformed victims by A. Tamis. and, for this reason, to a large degree susceptible people, who con- Following these references, the closing remark of the schol- stitute the canonical Flock of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of arly Editor sounds ironic when he seals his article, saying: “these are Australia. the three award-winning Institutions which produce works so that Today, out of obligation, we shall comment briefly on this History will not be silent”! award to Mr Tamis which is degrading to the credibility and pres- By Archbishop tige of the ‘The Onassis International Prizes’. Prior to this, however, In any event, the mockery of common sense emanating Stylianos we must urgently refer whoever is sincerely interested in the ‘dis- from the contentious ‘awarding’ of this prize ‘stands out’, not so of Australia tant’ Greeks of the Antipodes, to our previous and acutely revealing much for how an ‘outside’ commentator dealt with it, but primarily article from this same column (see ‘The Greek Australian Vema’, for how it was judged based solely on ‘internal reasons’ – a techni- English edition, May 2005, pages 23-24) cal term of critical analysis which has long been respected interna- Indeed, it would not be an exaggeration to immediately add tionally. here that whoever is not aware of, or has discounted, that painful article by the writer, as the responsible Primate, will not be in a posi- tion either to appreciate the degree of the continuing ‘crime’ against the Greeks of Australia, or to ‘identify’ even vaguely the (most THE DEMISE audacious and cowardly) collaborators in the now almost ‘global- ly’ proliferated activities of the ‘maleficent duo’ (T. TAMIS and G. OF ‘THE ONASSIS BABINIOTIS)! INTERNATIONAL PRIZES’ The ‘Onassis International Prizes’, as is known, have been awarded since 1978 to personalities or Institutions and Organizations whose prestige and contribution have long ago already been recog- It is these ‘internal reasons’ that we shall now expose very nized - all the more if they are associated intrinsically with the his- briefly, in the order determined by the events themselves. tory and culture of Greece. In other words, the ‘Onassis Foundation’ is an Institution a) We commence with a critical analysis of the title by which constituting the highest national and cultural point of reference the institution of E.K.E.M.E. is referred to in recent years – the which the late Aristotle Onassis, that legendary and simultaneously ‘National Centre for Hellenic Studies and Research’. tragic Smyrnian of the seas and skies, so conscientiously bequeathed for the promotion of his homeland. In the first instance let us recall that Mr Tamis commenced Of course, there is no doubt that, as occurs almost always his ‘research’ activities entirely amateurishly when the so-called with such significant prizes – usually accompanied by enormous ‘Macedonian problem’ (with the wild declarations and claims from amounts of money in order to further elevate their prestige – ulti- Skopje towards the end of the 1980’s) was at the most heated epicen- mately, because it is people who judge outcomes, there is always the tre of interest amongst the Greek people, inside and outside of danger that, to a certain degree, there will prevail recommendations Greece. At that time, the already known ‘Trickster’ of Greeks abroad promoting favouritism or decisions reflecting partiality that hastened to establish the ‘Institute for Macedonian Studies’in invariably cast a shadow over such institutions which, by definition, Melbourne and to ‘proclaim’ himself ‘President’ in order to network are considered to be giving recognition ‘on the basis of merit’. and promote himself as a ‘national’ Pioneer towards the Greeks of It is also considered as given and expected that recipients of Australia, but also towards the sensitized Governments of Greece such awards, be they cultural organizations or authors, will not and Cyprus (for the securing of capital funding!). always be of the same gravity or importance. Nonetheless, with the Henceforth, the term ‘national’ remained attached to his same realism, it is understood that the Panel of Judges will always Institute which, in continuation (by incorporating in his programme exercise analogous diligence, in order that the prestige of the prize certain ‘Archives’ of questionable value, with reference to Pontians, not be devalued, because in such event the entire concept would then Cypriots, Armenians etc) expanded its ‘turnover’, so that today it degenerate into the exact opposite of the noble aims intended by the projects itself as ‘expert on everything’ and, as a rule, in ‘alien ‘award regulator’. fields’. This, then, is the manner in which today’s grandiose and Another parameter which ‘counts’ most especially in such contradictory title of the Institute evolved in the setting of La Trobe cases – inasmuch as it is sometimes impossible for those who do not University with the cooperation of Professor (then Vice-Chancellor) know individuals and circumstances to appraise it – is that which we M. Osborne who, though perhaps well-intentioned in the beginning, could name ‘proximity’ or ‘association’. For example, with which became entrapped in an undertaking whose ‘complications’ he prob- other institutions or individuals someone is honoured at the same ably could not have foreseen. This, at least, one can assume from the function. manner in which he ‘replied’ to our unambiguously justified refusal to accept his official invitation to attend an unacceptable function Perhaps the decision taken in 2000 by the Board of (see the original English texts at the end of this article, not only of Directors of the Onassis Foundation ‘to suspend the awarding of our letter of response, but of his few-worded reply as well). prizes’ might not perhaps be completely unrelated to the above ‘terms’ and the accompanying ‘reservations’. Despite this, it left b) Irrespective of the title that we analysed briefly, however, open the possibility of ‘awarding a special prize, by special decision, and of the degree to which the EKEME is able to fulfill its publicized to personalities of recognized prestige and merit, without a determi- ‘research’ programmes, it is also a very telling fact that, during the nation on the specific date of its presentation’. presentation ceremony, not even its ‘patron’, Mr G. Babiniotis, had the courage to ‘introduce’ this unknown institution of Melbourne. Let us now come to the vexed question of the award to the MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/33 Our Primate’s View

Cont. from previous page

Yet, he is the main advocate of its scandalous promotion – especially in Greece where, as is correctly said, “you are whatever you declare”. Undoubtedly though, the Board of Directors of the Onassis Foundation was not unaware of the brazen ‘stage director’ behind this inexplicable award. And one asks: Who could have imagined such ‘hide and seek’ tactics and such a degradation of tradition, when they who were invited to receive awards, namely Mssrs TAMIS and OSBORNE, were asked to laud their own ‘praises’ (in the Laudatio) con- cerning the unknown work of EKEME?

Whoever has the resolve may read the relevant websites on the internet, togeth- er with the analogous publications in the daily newspapers of Athens, to observe the lit- erally incoherent and sibylline empty talk which both the first and the second speakers reeled off – without any resistance – in the presence of Officials who were unaware of the story behind the scenes, including the President of the Hellenic Republic.

At least for those university academics who, even in our day, still respect the exactitude and modesty of a Scholar, especially during such formal occasions, it would have sounded like a distasteful farce when, with his unbridled introductory flattery, Mr Tamis attempted to ‘win the favour of his audience’ (‘captatio benevolentiae’!) by daring to characterize the late Aristotle Onassis as “the most distinguished businessman of mankind of the 20th century”. In closing with equally irreverent brashness, he referred to the same memorable man as the “Leader of Hellenism”!

Without citing the entire speech whose content, one way or another, reads with absolute fluidity, we believe the following paragraph encapsulates the most precise rep- resentation of the ‘doubtful’ presence and activity of the fabled Institute which was awarded such a prize in Athens (18-10-06), ‘without deliberation’ and ‘without shame’, during the commemoration of 100 years since the birth of Aristotle Onassis: “The National Centre for Hellenic Studies and Research is aware of its potential, we have the capabilities, we have priorities and a vision, we have conviction, we also have, though, restrictions. Frequently we are confronted by crises in our communication with Greek and Cypriot institutions, we regularly distinguish the conde- scendence of an endemic pathogenicity of this crisis. However, we resist and move forward.” As for Mr M. Osborne whom we have never happened to meet personally but whom we know of through his celebrated cooperation with Mr Tamis at EKEME, we would not wish here to enter into more serious judgments on values or realities as con- cerns his relative ‘representations’. We shall restrict ourselves only to two points which are certainly not unrelated to ‘Academic ethos’, generally, at least as perceived by the average citizen in any well-governed country and university community. On the one hand, we were skeptical about his sudden resignation from the office of Vice-Chancellor at LA TROBE University, following what was published in the wide- ly circulating and reputable newspaper of Melbourne ‘THE AGE’ (7-3-06). On the other hand, we were astonished at his official statement, albeit incompatible with reality, as appears in the text which he read as a ‘Laudation’ at the ceremony of the contentious award, and which we quote verbatim: “Amongst the wealth of activity from these Institutes and sections, I would highlight especially the interaction with secondary schools – and I stress this feature for the reason that the future of Hellenism is in the hands of the youth of today and that it is the youth of our society that we need to convince of the value of carry- ing the torch of Hellenism into the future – no easy task in a blatant- ly utilitarian social environment, with little or no respect for the achievements of the past. The National Centre for Hellenic Studies and Research has taken this task very seriously and in recent times has organized highly successful student competitions on Hellenic topics, which have to date involved more than 700 schools and more than 10,000 students from all over Australia…” In response to this ‘concentration of hot air’ by Mr Osborne, now resigned from LA TROBE and currently Chair of a university in vast China, we are obliged to apply the ‘brakes’ with some impartial numbers, in order that he might be obliged to tell us where he came across 700 schools and 10,000 students at ‘Secondary Schools’ of the Greeks in Australia? When, in reference to EKEME, he writes “I would highlight especially the inter- action with secondary schools – and I stress this feature for the reason that the future of Hellenism is in the hands of the youth of today and that it is the youth of our society that we need to convince of the value of carrying the torch of Hellenism into the future…”, to the youth of which nation and people is he referring? Of course, Mr Osborne is not ignorant of the fact that all the ‘Secondary Schools’ of the Greek people in Australia belong to and function under the responsibility of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. Of the total of 8 (eight) full-time Greek Orthodox Day Schools (Colleges) across Australia, none has allowed even the slightest access either to Mr Tamis or the entire ‘fabrication’ of EKEME, let alone any communi- cation and collaboration! Consequently, in closing this painful official denunciation of the complete dis- tortion and disinformation by EKEME, regarding the educational and cultural data in relation to the Greeks of Australia, we cite our correspondence with Mr Osborne him- self, as mentioned above. Translated by FSS MARCH 2007 6/34 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Needy AustraliansTHE sent back FIRST to the streets WAVEAustralian researchers By Jane Bunce unlock secret of the Andes

Thousands of mentally ill and drug-addicted Australians end By Jane Bunce up sleeping in cars, tents or on the street after leavingBeyond tempo- a white Australia rary government-funded accommodation, a new report Australian researchers have solved the mystery of how the Andes byreveals. permission ‘Sydney Morning Herald’ European migrants, especiallywas createdfrom Greece and believe and the Italy, unique were geological trying toprocess reunite will fam- keep A new report into people using the government-funded the South American mountain range growing for thousands more ilies separated by war. years. SupportedOn April Accommodation 20, 1947, the AssistanceEgyptian-registered Program (SAAP) SS Misr has docked in Melbourne with It was a voyage that ended in unprecedented controversy as the SS Misr sparked found almost one in five are drug or alcohol addicted and Most large mountain ranges occur when one continent hits anoth- its multicultural human cargo: 624 men, women and children from 26 different a bitter wrangle over dire on-boarder, but scientists conditions, have until and now allegedly been unable “animal-like” to explain the behav- Andes. countries,about 12 per plucked cent reported from aports mental in health the Mediterranean, problem. Middle East and East Africa. iour by steerage-class migrants. About six per cent of clients suffering mental illness left the "It's long been a mystery why the Andes are there," Dr Wouter accommodationIt was a voyage without that any began proper amid place scenes to go -of more almost than unimaginable chaos, as hun- And a voyage that sailed deepSchellart into from the nationalAustralian psyche, National exposing University widespread (ANU) said. fears dreds700 people of thousands each year. of migrants, refugees and displaced persons scrambled for that the very future of White"Normally Australia you washave suddenly two major threatened continents colliding, by the arrivalsuch as ofin berthsAnd about on ships 14 per heading cent of people out of with an drug area and ravaged alcohol prob-by war and now being painfully so many Jews, of so manythe swarthy Himalayas dark-skinned when you have southern the Indian Mediterraneans. continent moving south Un- redrawnlems became along homeless new boundary after leaving lines. the accommodation,At the same time, thousands of pre-war British, un-Australian, “unsuitable”west and pushing aliens. into Asia. It crumbles the Asian crust and amounting to more than 2,500. results in the formation of the Himalayas. "Clients in the substance use and mental health groups were "But in South America you only have the South American conti- moreMiserable often living in a car, tent, park,sea street orvoyage squat both a small price to paynent." for many blessings before and after support than clients without these problems," Dr Schellart said researchers at ANU and Melbourne's Monash Johnthe Australian Huxley Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) report and those with substance abuse problems stayed two weeks, University used supercomputer modelling to work out whether says. compared to one week for those without either issue. jostling of tectonic plates in the region could have created an About 115,000 people in 2004-05 used SAAP, a joint feder- upward thrust to make the Andes. MarianthyBut the report Scoutas said may a bestint 102, in butsupported she still accommodation al and state funded program that helps people who are home- The Andes sits above a plate boundary known as a subduction vividlyreduced recalls the likelihood at least one a client feature would of her end first up on the street. less or at risk of becoming homeless by providing temporary zone, where one tectonic plate is sinking below its neighbouring trip"Generally, to Australia for bothaboard the themental controversial health and substance use supported accommodation and related support services. plate. migrantgroups, ship,leaving the supportSS Misr, to in live 1947: in a the car, inter- tent, park, street or Males aged 25-44 were the most common group using the The ocean-covered Nazca plate is moving east and plunging into minablesquat decreased seasickness. as the length of support increased," the report service, and the majority arrived with no children or other the earth below the South American plate, which is moving west. said.It started the day Marianthy, who was born family members. The researchers created a three-dimensional model of the sub- on Almostthe picturesque one in four Greek substance island of users Rhodes, who left stayed in the sup- About eight per cent of drug abusers brought children with duction zone and applied gravitational forces to watch how the Portported Said, accommodation Egypt, and continued for less than for a severalweek ended up on the them, along with about five per cent of clients suffering men- plates deformed. weeksstreets. until, as the last passenger to disembark, tal health issues. The accompanying parent was usually the They found the width of the tectonic boundary determines the sheAbout stepped one ashore in five in peopleMelbourne. with Fellowmental pas-health or substance mother. speed and direction of its migration, which in turn affects the sengersabuse problemsassured her moved that thebetween food, especiallysupported or emergency The AIHW report also found about one in seven requests for shapes that form on the earth's surface. thelodgings, fish, was and good. about one in 10 came from or went into an insti- help from psychologists or psychiatrists from people with a Dr Schellart said that because the boundary between the two tution“But forsuch me as the a hospital, mix of rough prison seas or detoxification and thick unit. psychiatric illness were not met. plates was nearly 7,400km long from Bolivia in the north to odourAbout of burningone in 10 fuel otherwise meant I’ve lived not in been private able rental accommo- And more than one in 10 requests for alcohol or drug sup- Patagonia, Southern Chile, in the south, it was able to resist the todation eat fish and since the thesame voyage.” number lived in community or public port or intervention were not fulfilled. forces being applied to it. housing.Nevertheless, she and her husband, People with mental health issues stayed a median 22 days AAP "It's the widest subduction zone on earth, and that makes it very Stylianos, with whom she was reunited after special," he said. 20 years’ separation, later ran fish and chip "Because it's so wide it can't move laterally and is basically more shops inAndrews rural Queensland, said Fatherpushes Steven on with citizenship test or less fixed in space." Scoutas, her grandson. So instead the force of the collision causes compression on the MrsImmigration Scoutas, whoMinister says Kevinher seasickness Andrews washas shrugged off a Surely being able to use English is important for anybody in western edge of the South American plate, which crumbles and a stingingsmall price attack to payby forgovernment “the countless backbencher bless- on proposed this country." shortens and forms the mountain range. ings”tough she new has English enjoyed language with five tests generations for migrants. of English tests are already compulsory for people seeking If the boundary fragmented, the upward thrust of the Andes familyBackbencher in Sydney Petro and Georgiou, Brisbane, a keywas Liberalone of Party moderate, Australian citizenship, but Prime Minister John Howard would cease. aboutdescribed 600 thepaying citizenship migrants test onas athe massive Egyptian step backwards and wants to introduce a 30-question general knowledge exam ABOVE: Marianthy Scoutas upon arrival at Mt Morgan, Queensland, But the researchers believe the same forces will continue to push ship.utterly at odds with Australia's commitment to a fair go. that requires English comprehension skills. 1947. RIGHT: Marianthy Scoutas aged 102, with great great grand up the Andes at a rate of a couple of centimetres each year. ItsMr arrival Andrews with onesaid of it the was first important sizeable forgroups all new citizens to Mr Georgiou said in a speech that the tougher requirements daughter, Yiota Cross, 2007 "It's a 7,400km long plate boundary which is not going to disap- ofspeak non-British English. migrants to Australia after the to be demanded of aspiring citizens would shut the gate on pear," Dr Schellart said. turbulent"When war people years come prompted to Australia, widespread they crit- come to Australia many people who could make a valuable contribution to of the Misr’s voyage and the start of postwar Sydney. "It's been active forplished at least writer about of40 poetrymillion andyears prose, or so, aand proud the icismbecause - about they the see conditions this is as land on board, of opportunity," and the he told ABC Australia. mass migration [was] held at the Powerhouse After living a short time in AndesNew Zealand, itself startedAustralian to form about and, 25like million many ofyears the ago.Misr passen- qualityRadio. and colour of many of the new Mr Georgio said the test was unduly harsh, requiring a high- Museum. Ataya moved to Australia, staying"It's with very Father likely thisgers, will has continue contributed to remain much andto hisactive adopted plate Australians.\"And surely part of our responsibility to them is to ensure er standard of English than spoken by 2.5 million Australians It [was] addressed by the NSW Governor, Michael Shehadie in the easternboundary suburbs and we'llhomeland. get continuing growing of the mountain belt." thatOn theyMonday, understand [12th andMarch can use2007] English, a special not to say that peo- classified by the Bureau of Statistics as having very poor lit- Professor Marie Bashir, whose husband’s fam- before joining a relative in Thenorth-western researchers' findings were published in prestigious journal receptionple shouldn't organised be able by to usethe theirNSW native Migration tongues. eracy levels. ily, the Shehadies, helped one of the Misr’s NSW. Nature. NEXT ISSUE: When the Boat came in Heritage"That Centrehas been to marka great the additional 60th anniversary advantage to Australia. AAP Lebanese migrants, Chafic Ataya, settle in Now back in Randwick, Ataya is an accom- by John HuxleyAAP

By Mina Candalepas* problems with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, modulat- ing their feelings, connecting with others and moreover main- Psychologist MAPS Mental Health taining a positive self identity. Reg NSW PS0057198

sion and/or nausea. Emotional reactions can range from extre- Through psychological treatment, reactions to trauma are Dealing with Trauma me fear of being left alone to feelings of guilt, numbness, over highly treatable and the chances of complete recovery are sensitivity, feeling jumpy or startled at sudden noises, helpless, excellent. Psychologists help people develop long-term coping Traumatic events occur daily in today’s society. They could vulnerable, angry, irritable, mood swings. Furthermore, some skills and assist people with restoring personal power and/ or range from the terrorist attacks in Bali and New York on people experience difficulty with approaching the place where control over their lives. September 11 to being involved in a serious car accident, a the traumatic event occurred. At times, thinking may also be robbery or the victim of a physical or sexual assault. If you impacted, in that people become confused, have intrusive Call your local psychologist, the Australian Psychological have ever been in a situation where you have feared for your thoughts of the traumatic event, problems concentrating and / Society (APS) Referral Service on 1800 333 497, ask your GP life or the life of your loved one and consequently experienced or nightmares about the traumatic event. or for more information. intense fear, helplessness and horror, you have experienced a Mina Candalepas traumatic event. Reacting to trauma is a normal human experience and at times Psychologist MAPS we may need the support of family, friends and / or psycholog- Reg NSW PS0057198 Such an experience can be frightening and disturbing. ical assistance. Mina Candalepas is a Registered Psychologist. She is the sole director of a Clinical Private Practice in the Campsie Professional Medical Practice, The way in which people react to traumatic events differs from It is critical to seek professional / psychological assistance Sydney NSW. Her particular speciality is in trauma and chronic pain manage- person to person and reactions can be physical, emotional when trauma related symptoms persist, in that they have not ment and she also provides psychological therapy for depression, anxiety, and/or reactions impacting thoughts. settled down within 1 – 2 weeks after the traumatic event. work-place issues and/or injuries, relationship issues, self esteem and grief. When left untreated trauma related symptoms can lead to Therapy is conducted in either English or Greek. All services are by appoint- Physical symptoms include difficulty in getting to sleep, tired- future psychological problems including Post Traumatic Stress ment ONLY and strictly confidential. Her contact details are Tel (02) 9591 ness, changes in appetite, shakiness, headaches, muscle ten- Disorder (PTSD). Long term trauma sufferers can experience 7714, Mob 0410 493 806. MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/35

Astoria Greeks to make own stand at flick

Astoria is going wild for “300” - the big-budget Hollywood ing. movie based on a heroic battle in ancient Greece that “I’m an honorary Greek,” said Vallone. “We have more allowed democracy to flourish. Greeks [in Astoria] than anywhere outside of Athens.” At least one group of 50 Greek-American buddies, many of Lagonikos’ older brother, John, is dead serious about his her- them from Queens’ famed Greek enclave, invaded Manhattan itage. recently for an opening-night show of the superhyped movie. “It was one of the major battles that was fought for democra- The Warner Bros. film tells the story of 300 Spartans led by cy as we know it,” said John Lagonikos, 35, a doctor who lives King Leonidas in the battle of Thermopylae in 480 B.C. - one in Nassau County. of history’s most famous last stands. “If they hadn’t stopped the army, who knows what the world “We have a whole Greek contingent going,” said Peter would be like today?” he said. Lagonikos, an Astoria lawyer whose parents emigrated to New History’s accounts of the battle tell of a small but brave York from Sparta. Spartan force - they were eventually slaughtered - using the nar- Astoria cafe owner Harry Panagiopopoulos, 28, said, “We’ve row Thermopylae Pass to block an advancing army of hundreds been talking about it for the past year. It’s a big deal for Greek of thousand of Persians. Aussie travellers heritage. It’s one of the greatest stories of all time.” Leonidas’ soldiers held off the Persians long enough to allow Because they’d have to go barechested, the gang of New York retreating Greek armies to prepare for the next battle, one that Greeks - from as far away as Long Island - aren’t going to dress determined the outcome of the war and allowed Greek civiliza- reject Qantas sale up as Spartan warriors. tion to flourish. Even so, the atmosphere at the 12:45 a.m. showing at the AMC The Lagonikos brothers grew up in a home with statues of Australian travellers have voted against selling off the coun- Loews Lincoln Square IMAX theater at 68th St. and Broadway Leonidas in their living room. try’s iconic flying kangaroo, a website poll says. is expected to be raucous. “He was a real figure - of almost mythical proportions,” Peter An online poll conducted by travel website TotalTravel.com “I can only imagine the mood of this crowd leaving the the- Lagonikos said with pride. revealed 80 per cent of those surveyed believe the $11.1 bil- ater,” said City Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria), an Panagiopopoulos said, “It makes me feel ... the power of being lion takeover will not provide travellers with better service. Italian-American who is joining them for the late-night show- Greek.” Those who voted against the sale also said they believed it was little more than a profit-making exercise that would end up costing Australian workers their jobs. Of the more than 600 people who took part in the survey, Australia pulls plug on old bulbs 42 respondents backed the sale, stating it would reinvigorate the airline and push it forward to greater success in the future. Australia has announced plans to ban incandescent light The bulbs will be completely phased out by 2010 and The remaining 13 per cent said the sale did not concern bulbs and replace them with more energy efficient fluores- replaced with the more fuel efficient compact fluorescent them and it was not up to them to judge who owned it. cent bulbs. The environment minister said the move could models which use around 20% of the electricity to produce the TotalTravel.com global marketing manager Paul Fisher said cut the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by 4 million same amount of light. the survey made it clear that the airline’s regular customers tonnes by 2012. Matt Prescott of the UK-based Ban the Bulb campaign said were unhappy with the decision to sell the iconic company he was delighted that Australia and California are moving for- and that the survey results would further fuel public debate “It’s a little thing but it’s a massive change,” Malcolm Turnbull ward on this issue, which he highlighted in an article for the about the issue. said. BBC News website a year ago. “This survey makes it clear that most Australians are strong- The decision will make Australia the first country to ban the “I’m now hoping that Arnold Schwarzenegger and John ly opposed to the takeover by the Airline Partners Australia light bulbs, although the idea has also been proposed in the US Howard make firm commitments to support these proposals, private equity consortium,” Mr Fisher said. state of California. explore other energy saving technologies which are already “They clearly can’t see the benefits in the takeover, they Mr Turnbull said that he hoped the rest of the world would available and enable their economies to reduce their carbon don’t think it will necessarily improve service and it could follow Australia’s lead in banning the traditional bulbs. emissions, save money and benefit from rapid innovation,” he cost jobs.” “If the whole world switches to these bulbs today, we would said. The survey results echo the thoughts of manufacturing, reduce our consumption of electricity by an amount equal to Green campaigners and the opposition party in Australia pilots’ and engineers’ unions who this week voiced their con- five times Australia’s annual consumption of electricity,” he picked up the same theme, suggesting that ratifying the Kyoto cerns about the federal government’s formal approval of the said. Protocol would be a more powerful way for the country to takeover. The incandescent light bulb, which wastes energy in heat dis- reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Union members believe the sale will cost jobs and diminish persed while the light is switched on, is based on a design “The major producers of emissions in this country are not regional services. invented in the 19th century by engineers including Thomas individuals, they’re governments and business,” Peter Garrett, AAP Edison and Joseph Swan. the opposition’s environment spokesman, said. Sixty per cent of cars can use ethanol Walk against poverty season set to kick off Thousands of Australians will put on More than half of Australia’s car users could cut their petrol their walking shoes to help ease world costs and at the same time help the environment by using an poverty over the next two months. ethanol blend in their fuel tank. The 41st Oxfam Walk Against Want Government research released today shows about 60 per begins on April 1 in Canberra, followed cent of petrol vehicles are suitable for use with ethanol blend- by walks on April 29 in Victoria, ed fuels. Western Australia and Tasmania. Ethanol, which is produced from sugar crops, can be blend- The last walk will take place in Sydney ed with gasoline in varying quantities to reduce consumption on the May 6, with a choice of three of petroleum fuels and reduce air pollution. routes, all starting in Manly. Orbital Australia was commissioned to conduct the testing This year's campaign will raise money program, which focused on vehicles listed by the Federal for disadvantaged people in 28 coun- Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) as unsuitable for tries, including Australia. use with ethanol-blend fuel. Live music, a barbecue breakfast and a Using the most recent vehicle census in March 2006 and massage will be provided for partici- information from the FCAI, the Orbital study estimates pants who walk the shores of Canberra's about 7.6 million of petrol vehicles are suitable for use with Lake Burley Griffin. E10, a blend of 10 per cent ethanol in petrol. Oxfam says the money raised from the “The FCAI confirms that all new Australian cars are suit- 5km walk will go towards providing able for E10 ethanol-blended fuel and that the vast majority food and shelter to poverty stricken fam- of new imported car models sold in Australia today are also ilies. compatible with E5 or E10 ethanol-blended fuels,” "This year we will be sending the first Environment Minister Malcolm Turnbull said in a statement. five thousand dollars raised to the help Last year around a thousand people come and have a good time," Ms Azize The government recommends that consumers check the the thousands of refugees in Sudan, and took part in Canberra, and Oxfam is said. FCAI list for information on ethanol use in their vehicle and additional funds will be used to lobby encouraging families to get involved "The walk also empowers people and consult vehicle manufacturers for specific information about the government to address the health of again this year. gives them a sense of taking steps their vehicle’s suitability. indigenous Australians," event organiser "We're hoping to make it a grass roots against poverty." AAP Mayi Azize said. community event where anyone can AAP MARCH 2007 8/36 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA OAKLEIGH GREEK ORTHODOX COLLEGE “STS. ANARGIRI”

Our College can make a real difference to your child. We promote and live by the family values that are so important to all of us and the lives of our children. As well as providing an excellent education for the children in our care, we work closely with all our families to ensure we also contribute to the development of their children as good people who live by a strong value system and become valuable contributors to the society they live in.

We support and promote ongoing innovation in the education programs we offer our students so that we create a truly excited and inspired student body. At Oakleigh Greek Orthodox College you can be assured that: x Curriculum is designed so that all students are required to do serious intellectual ÈåñìÝò åõ÷Ýò work, with high levels of achievement demanded. Schoolwork is tied to real world problems and involves the development of intellectual habits and skills such as problem-solving, collaborating, investigating various points of view, seeking ãéá ôçí ìåãÜëç åïñôÞ connections to other realms of knowledge, and understanding the applications of knowledge acquired. x Your child will be known well and understood by caring teachers who will spend extended time with them during the day and over the weeks and years , in an ôçò ×ñéóôéáíïóýíçò, environment which is nurturing and supportive of the needs of each individual. x Your child understands, respects and is proud of their heritage, while also developing effective Greek literacy skills and respecting and appreciating their ôï ¢ãéï ÐÜó÷á Greek Orthodox religion in Australian society. x Students will be more outward-looking and participate in local, national and international activities that focus on the needs of others. x Your family forms a strong partnership with the College, with effective communication and involvement through a range of College initiatives and activities. x Strong and visionary leadership with clear direction so that the school is always at the cutting edge of modern educational practices. Our warmest wishes for a

We are a low-fee Independent School that provides a high quality educational experience for your child, but with some unique elements that you will find hard to match elsewhere. Happy Easter We are easily accessible by car, public transport, we run our own bus fleet if necessary and for the convenience of our families we operate Before and After-School Care Programs.

If you share our philosophy for what makes a great school, then I encourage you to contact me. I would enjoy meeting with you to show you around the College campus so you can see for yourself what a truly great school we have.

Steve Charisis – College Principal

Oakleigh Greek Orthodox College “Sts. Anargiri” 77-81 Willesden Road Oakleigh 3166 (P.O. Box 2120, Oakleigh 3166) Phone: 9569 6128 FAX: 9568 6558

E-mail: [email protected] Web Page: http://www.ogoc.vic.edu.au MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/37

The Greek Welfare Centre in South Australia and its Patron “St. Philothei” Welfare in today’s social fabric of economic ation, but rather the crown of creation, who an era of oppression and foreign rule, visible cally appropriate services that empower the rationalism is increasingly being seen as a together with all people are called to become icons of Orthodox Christianity not only most marginalized and isolated individuals commodity that needs to be earned by the con- “partakers of the divine nature” (2Pet. 1:4) of became vehicles of divine grace that culminat- and families in the intimate Orthodox and the sumer individual. Here the dignity associated the reciprocal relationship of love that exists ed in the glorification of the Lord’s name, but broader general community. with human worth is replaced by criteria of the within the Divine Persons of the Holy Trinity. also reminded one of the “home land” to “deserving” versus the “undeserving”, where- Since “Greater love has no one than this, than which they belonged. SERVICES by the onus automatically falls on the “unde- to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John serving” to prove they are “deserving”. Indeed 15:13) if follows then that the offering of love This “home land” was the love of God and ∗ Information on and referral to government what were once considered as divine birth for the other “for whom Christ died” (1Cor. made Christians more determined in their and community services rights, e.g. health, shelter and well being, are 8:11) cannot be limited even by death itself. devotion to Christ. Philothei’s open defiance to * Practical assistance in accessing government now seen to be in want whereby accessibility Such was the witness emulated by the life of the ottoman regime made her a principle target and community services is determined by the elasticity of supply. Saint Philothei, who fittingly has been of persecution. After being tortured in front of * Community Education embraced to be the patron saint of the “Greek her fellow civilians, whom previously she so * Consultation with other service providers Who would have thought in today’s times Welfare Centre of South Australia” passionately served, Philothei peacefully gave * Crisis intervention where abundance and wastage have reached up her spirit on the 19th February, 1589. As her * Accommodation assistance unprecedented levels, that caution and restric- Saint Philothei was born in Athens in the fate- namesake rightfully proclaims, “Philothei” * Casework tion needs to be exercised when responding to ful year of 1522 when Christianity in Greece was truly a “friend of God”. Her generosity * Volunteer coordination and support humanitarian aid. Being discontent with such was put to one of its severest tests through the and willingness to give everything up for the * Greek Meals Service realities is truly the first step to transfiguring malevolence of the Turkish occupation. love of God, is truly an inspiration for the staff their limitations, and certainly moves one well Despite her affluent upbringing and the exten- and volunteers of the “Greek Welfare Centre SUPPORT PROGRAMS AND GROUPS away from falling over the precipice of sive inheritance left to her through the repose of SA”. despondency. of her parents, Philothei only felt at peace * Aged and Disabled when she was serving the oppressed and the The “Greek Welfare Centre of SA” is the wel- * Senior Citizens group It is quite clear from the opening accounts of poor. Moved by her love for God, Philothei fare agency of the “Greek Orthodox Archdio- * Carer Support Group Genesis in the Old Testament and through out became a nun and much to the discontent of cese of Australia” in South Australia. The * Carer Major Retreat the rest of the Holy Scriptures that the human the unrelenting ottoman rule, used her exces- Centre’s purpose is to develop, provide and * Home and Community Care Program person is not simply an equal member of cre- sive wealth to erect churches and nunneries. In promote high quality culturally and linguisti- * Low vision Awareness Group

Seasons cmt We wish everyone Greetingsa Happy Easter and the expected resurrection of the Lord to bring peace and hope to the world †††††cccmt†mm†tt†††architectsa rchitects

114916 † cmt† architects Tel: +612 9587 4330 Fax: +612 9587 4332 c†mm†tt†††a rchitects †††† Tel: +61 2 9587 4330 Fax: +61 2 9587 4332 E - mail:[email protected] Director:Director: Chris Tsioulos Chris Tsioulos E-mail: [email protected] MARCH 2007 10/38 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Windows to Orthodoxy What Is the Paschal Triduum? By Guy Freeland* of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” The Paschal Triduum is the term used for the three-day festival (Matthew 12:39-40 RSV.) of the Lord’s Passover. It is overwhelmingly the most important festival of the Church year, that without which none of the oth- Christ died around 3 p.m.on Friday and rose some time during ers would make any sense whatsoever. Saturday (Sunday by Jewish reckoning) night, probably in the early hours of Sunday morning. Give or take a few hours, this “Paschal” (Latin, paschalis = of or pertaining to the Passover) gives us a time span of around 36 not 72 hours (= three days is the adjective formed from the English word “Pasch”, a and nights). But what is meant in our text is not that the preferable alternative to the more common “Easter” (Greek and Resurrection would occur around 72 hours after His death, but Latin, Pascha, from the Hebrew Pesah or Pesach = Passover). that the period of Christ’s entombment would be contained The variant, “Pascha”, has been creeping into the English lan- within a space of three days and nights, a triduum, counting guage from Orthodox usage (but the Freeland’s 2001 inclusively as was the Ancient practice. Macquarie Dictionary only recognises the word, also spelt “paskha”, as referring to the scrumptious Russian cream cheese The three days and nights of our text are, therefore, Friday (the confection eaten with Paschal bread, kulich). day of the Last Supper, Agony in the Garden, Crucifixion and Entombment), Saturday, and Sunday (the day of the The Latin word triduum (= a space or period of three days) has Resurrection) as determined by Jewish reckoning; in other also been creeping into the English language, this time from words, from sunset Thursday to sunset Sunday. This is the Roman Catholic usage (though it too didn’t make it into our triduum to which Christ is referring. (But, as we shall see, the Macquarie Dictionary). span of the liturgical Paschal Triduum is shorter by around 18 hours.) The Paschal Triduum is the annual commemoration of the Paschal Mystery of the Lord, the mystery by virtue of which According to John, both the Crucifixion and the Last Supper on our salvation is procured. Over three days, the Church calls to the previous evening occurred on the day of Preparation for the mind, makes present and effective (the deeper meaning of the Passover (Friday, 14 Nisan, 30 or 33). This means that Christ Greek word anamnesis) the sequence of historical events com- would have been Crucified whilst the sacrificing of Paschal mencing with the Last Supper and extending through the lambs was actually taking place in the Temple. Crucifixion and Entombment to reach its climax with the Lord’s third-day Resurrection. The Passover lamb is an Old Testament type of Christ, of whom John the Baptist / Forerunner said, as Jesus came to him to be It is true that these and all the salvific events of the Gospel are hope. At the Passover Seder special foods are eaten, including baptised: “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of made present and effective every time the Divine Liturgy is cel- unleavened bread, matzos. No leavened food is permitted for the world!” (John 1:29.) Christ is the sacrificial lamb, free of ebrated, but there is also a need to focus and meditate upon the duration of the festival. any blemish of sin, who dies on the Cross without the breaking these events individually during the course of the Church year. of a bone. The very Crucifixion itself is foreshadowed in the Above all, we need once a year to follow the awesome and In Christ’s day, before its destruction, the animals were sacri- blood that was smeared on the doorposts and lintel, thereby heart-rending events of the Crucifixion and Resurrection of the ficed in the Temple, one for each family or group of families, forming the figure of a cross. Lord as they happened, day by day and hour by hour. and then roasted whole without breaking a bone and eaten at home at the Seder. Since the animals had to be sacrificed in the Christ was taken down from the Cross and laid in the tomb The Jewish Passover Temple, this part of the Ancient ritual is no longer performed. before sunset, which marked the beginning of the Sabbath (Saturday) In order to understand the meaning of Christ’s Passover, one Originally, there were two distinct festivals, Passover and the and also the Passover (15 Nisan). As God at the Creation rest- needs first to recall its Old Testament type (= foreshadowing), Feast of Unleavened Bread. Scholars believe that Passover ed on the Sabbath, the seventh day of the week, so Christ rest- the Jewish Passover feast. Passover is the festival celebrated at originated in a festival kept by shepherds (and goatherds) at the ed bodily in the tomb, but mystically descended into Hades. the first full moon of the Northern Hemisphere spring; that is, beginning of lambing in spring at which the first-born was sac- Sometime during the following night (Sunday, 16 Nisan) He on the fifteenth day of the Jewish lunar month Nisan. (In prin- rificed in order to secure the fertility of the flock. rose from the dead and greeted Mary Magdalene around sun- ciple, Easter Sunday is the Sunday following the first full moon rise. of spring, the Paschal moon. The Passover can, of course, fall Interestingly, the word pesach also means “skipping” and so on any day of the week.) originally Pesach might have referred to a festival at which the “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us (1 Corinthians 5:7 shepherds performed a skipping dance at the beginning of AV)”. Christ has passed over from life, through death and the The term “Passover” denotes the festival that commences with lambing. (Just a thought: how about restoring ceremonial danc- tomb, to new life; death has no dominion over Him. With the the eating of the Passover meal, the Passover Seder, on the ing to the liturgy at Pascha?) Resurrection all creation is renewed, the age to come is inaugu- evening following the afternoon of 14 Nisan and lasts for either rated. seven days (in Israel) or eight (in the Jewish Diaspora). The The Feast of Unleavened Bread is believed to have originated evening of the Seder is, strictly speaking, 15 not 14 Nisan since with settled agrarian farmers celebrating a festival at which the The Paschal Triduum the Jews, in common with the Orthodox Church, commence the first sheaf of ripened barley was offered to God in order to new day at sunset rather than midnight. (This is a confusing fact secure a good harvest. The leaven of the previous season would Vespers is the service which transports us from one day to the that has always to be borne in mind in discussing either the have been cleaned out and unleavened bread eaten until flour next (and so ideally should be commenced shortly before sun- Jewish or Orthodox calendars.) from the harvest was available that could be baked with new set). The first service of the Paschal Triduum is, therefore, the leaven. office of Vespers conjoined with the Liturgy of St Basil, the According to Exodus (7:14 - 15:21), God sent ten plagues upon Liturgy of the Last Supper. the Egyptians because the Pharaoh refused to release the The two spring festivals were eventually combined and histori- Israelites from slavery. The last and most terrible scourge was cised as a commemoration of the passing over of the dwellings Since the 24 hours bounded by the Last Supper and the the slaying of the first born sons of the Egyptians. God com- of the Israelites by the Angel of Death and subsequent passing Entombment are so tightly packed with incident, the offices of manded the Israelites to sacrifice a male lamb or kid (the goat, over of the Red Sea by the people. The “wave” offering of a Great Thursday also focus on the events of the evening of 14 not human version!) without blemish and smear some of its sheaf of ripe barley was made in the Temple at Passover and Nisan. However, Holy Thursday is not one of the days of the blood on the doorposts and lintel of their dwellings in order that matzos joined the roasted lamb, the matzos commemorating the Triduum; though it would not be inappropriate to regard it as the Angel of Death might pass over, and hence spare, them. Israelites leaving Egypt in such haste that they could take only the Eve of the Triduum. unleavened dough with them. Following this final plague, the Pharaoh releases the Israelites The Orthodox Church places the termination of the Triduum at who promptly flee Egypt. Pharaoh, however, changes his mind The Passover of the Lord the conclusion of the Midnight office (Mesonyktion / Nocturns) and sets off in pursuit, catching them up at the Red Sea. just before the ceremony of the Holy Fire and Paschal Mattins When the Jews asked Christ for a sign, He replied by invoking / Orthros. It is at this precise juncture that the Church changes Moses, instructed by God, commands the waters to divide so an Old Testament type of His forthcoming Passion and service books. The Triodion, which has been used since the that the Israelites might cross the sea on dry land. But when the Resurrection: Fourth Sunday before Great Lent (the Sunday of the Publican pursuing Egyptian chariots attempt to follow Moses commands and Pharisee), is replaced by the Pentekostarion, which will be the waters to return and the Egyptians and their horses are “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign; but no used through the Sunday of All Saints (the Sunday after drowned. The Israelites are now able to continue their long sign shall Pentecost). march to the Promised Land of milk and honey. be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was At the point that the celebrant brings forth in the darkened It is these two events which Passover came to commemorate, three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will church the light that symbolises the Risen Christ, a transition is so the feast is naturally seen as a festival of deliverance and the Son MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/39

Cont. from previous page grace we received through baptism is restored and renewed. brate the Holy Triduum. Likewise, every year that we follow the historical path of Our made from the Paschal Triduum to the Paschal season, which Lord’s Passover through the Paschal Triduum we reactivate in * Guy Freeland teaches Hermeneutics and Liturgical Studies at will continue through the Sunday of Pentecost / Trinity Sunday our lives the mystery of baptism; that is to say, the Paschal St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College. (the Eighth Sunday of Pascha). Mystery of the Lord.

No disciple witnessed the actual Resurrection, instead the The mystagogic identity of the Paschal Triduum and Holy empty tomb was discovered around sunrise by the women (the Baptism was underlined in the early Church by the practice of For the bibliophiles… Myrrh-bearers). Our annual commemoration of the Lord’s normally only administering baptism and the related rites of The Orthodox Liturgy: the Development of the Passover is completed and we now enter into the joy of the Christian initiation during the Paschal Vigil service. Eucharistic Liturgy of the Byzantine rite. good news of the Resurrection and enjoy a fifty-day foretaste of By Hugh Wybrew (St Vladimir’s Seminary Press) the age to come, the eternal Kingdom of God. The procession of the newly baptised, those who moments before had “put on” the Risen Christ, into the congregation of ‘Byzantine rite’ is a broad term, often employed in the West It is a matter of regret that the two liturgically most important the faithful for the Divine Liturgy and Holy Communion was to distinguish it as a separate, but historically related, form of services of the Paschal Triduum are usually celebrated (for the first and greatest sign of the Resurrection. The Ancient worship to the ‘Latin rite’. This book, though, written by a dubious pastoral reasons) in Greek churches at quite the wrong words (taken from Galations 3:27) are still chanted at this piv- former Dean of the Anglican Cathedral in Jerusalem, is con- time. Vespers and the Liturgy of the Last Supper, which mark otal point in the Vigil: “As many of you as have been baptised cerned with the development throughout history of the the beginning of the Triduum proper, are often begun before into Christ have put on Christ. Alleluia”. eucharistic Liturgy as practised by Christians belonging to sunrise, around twelve hours before the correct time of celebra- the Eastern Church. A telling recommendation on the blurb, tion. It is by virtue of its intrinsically baptismal character that we are written by Bishop Kallistos Ware, notes that, while the con- able to see most clearly the connection between the second of tents of this book are detailed and at times critical, it is a Similar rough treatment is meted out to the Paschal Vigil the Passover commemorations and the Paschal Triduum. The “sympathetic” treatment. Many issues are dealt with briefly Vespers and Liturgy of St Basil, the most important service of passage of the Israelites from Egypt through the Red Sea to in this very readable paperback, but it gives more than the whole year, which commemorates the actual Resurrection. freedom and the way to the Promised Land is an Old Testament enough information to anyone seeking a ‘way in’ to further The Liturgy usually celebrated after Paschal Mattins in the type of baptism. study. early hours of Sunday morning is not the Vigil Liturgy but the Liturgy for the First Sunday of Pascha and, as is the case with The relevant text, Exodus 13:20 - 15:19, is the sixth Old Metamorphosis: the Transfiguration in Byzantine Orthros, is outside the Paschal Triduum. Originally, the only Testament reading for Vespers of the Paschal Vigil, but is unfor- theology and iconography. Liturgy celebrated was the Vigil Liturgy. tunately not usually read in Greek churches today. (Neither, for By Andreas Andreopoulos (St Vladimir’s Seminary Press) that matter, is the third reading, Exodus 12:1-11, which relates Baptism and the Paschal Triduum God’s instructions for the observance of Passover.) The author of this paperback takes a fascinating approach to the study of icons. Central to his study is the icon of the Certainly there is a cosmic dimension to the Paschal Mystery, Through baptism we pass from the fallen world to new life in a Transfiguration of Christ on Mount Tabor, an icon of a feast but it was for us that Christ suffered one of the most painful new land. The wilderness of sin is put behind us and the gates that (the author notes) has become somewhat dwarfed by its methods of execution ever devised by twisted humanity. But of Paradise, closed at the Fall, are open before us. We can and proximity to the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. the Lord’s Passover was in vain unless we appropriate it to our- will still stumble as we make our way, but provided we take the This study goes on to discuss many related images, and dif- selves, rendering it effective in the transforming of our lives. Risen Christ into our lives, and constantly renew baptismal ferent versions of this icon, and in so doing attempts to Jesus was sinless, it is we who are the sinners, yet it was Christ innocence through prayer, repentance and the mysteries of the emphasise not only the parallels between Scripture and icons, who died, and died for us, taking our sins upon Himself that He Church, no power can prevent our entry through the gates. As but also the importance of the Transfiguration to theological might raise us up to new life through His Resurrection. Christ promised the penitent thief: “Today you will be with me debates and understanding throughout the past millenniums. in Paradise (Luke 23:43)”. What Christ underwent physically, we undergo sacramentally. Both books are available for purchase from the bookshop of In baptism we mystically die with Christ, are buried with Him But that day is already with us and can be experienced through the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, 242 Cleveland St., and raised up in Him as a new creation (see the Epistle reading the fifty days of the Paschal season until we reach the last great Redfern, Sydney, NSW 2016. Alternative postal address: PO for the Paschal Vigil Liturgy, Romans 6:3-11). Paschal festival, Trinity Sunday / Pentecost. Furthermore, every 186 Strawberry Hills NSW 2012. Telephone: (02) 9698 ensuing Sunday of the year belongs to the Paschal cycle and 5066. Every time we prayerfully participate in the Divine Liturgy the perpetuates the Lord’s Passover, until it is again time to cele- A.C. Cypriots demolish Questions & Answers wall in Nicosia Does the Orthodox faith believe in auguries, divinations and other such practices are under- Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis revelation of spiritual visions through stood as not in harmony with Christian belief (Canon 65 of (photo) praised the Cypriot govern- Q dreams? the Sixth Ecumenical Council and Pedalion commentary). ment’s unexpected demolition of a We are not to seek to interpret our dreams and to use them wall that has divided Nicosia for The answer to this question is a bit on the com- to plan our lives. decades - calling it a “brave, unilater- plex side. The Church could hardly deny that al, decision of goodwill” - and A God at certain times has revealed Himself to peo- * * * * * appealed to Turkish-Cypriot authori- ple through dreams, since there are many biblical ties to reciprocate. examples of such occurrences. Thus Jacob had such From the Orthodox Church: 455 Questions and Answers, “We hope for a response from the dreams (Genesis 28:12-15), as did Joseph (Genesis 37:5- other side,” Karamanlis said, echoing 10), Solomon (I Kings 3:5-9), Daniel (Daniel 7:1), the by Stanley S. Harakas, published by Light and Life. comments by Cypriot cabinet members as well as European Magi (Matthew 2:12), Pilate’s wife (Matthew 27:9), Peter Union and United Nations officials. (Peter 10:10-16). A bulldozer began dismantling the 4-meter-high concrete wall If you have any questions about the Orthodox stretching along Nicosia’s Ledra Street on Thursday night 8th In some special cases, God has revealed himself through March, and finished in the early morning the next day. dreams. But dreams are also the product of other forces, as faith which you would like answered in the “We expect - after this unilateral move - a decision to remove well. The very same Scriptures teach us that we are forbid- the Turkish army from the area in order to open the crossing den to observe and seek to interpret dreams as indicators of VEMA, send them to point for citizens,” Cyprus Foreign Minister Giorgos Lillikas future events, or to consult persons who claim to be able to said on the sidelines of an EU summit in Brussels. interpret them (Deuteronomy 13:1-4). This, because such EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn also appealed for interpreters often gave to the dreams meanings which were Vema -Q.&A., action. “I urge all concerned parties to use the momentum creat- contrary to God’s will and led people astray. Jeremiah ed by this courageous decision and rapidly take the next steps to says, “Behold, I am against those who prophesy lying effectively open the Ledra Street crossing,” Rehn said, noting dreams, says the Lord, who tell them and lead the people P.O.Box M59 Marrickville South, that such a move “would... encourage efforts aiming at a com- astray by their lies and their recklessness” (Jeremiah prehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem.” 23:32). NSW 2204 The UN’s special representative in Cyprus, Michael Moller, spoke of “a very welcome and positive contribution of great sig- The Church in continuation, condemned the practice of nificance.” Roman society and pagan religion to interpret dreams, for or e-mail them to: There were no official comments from Ankara but an adviser which there was even a “professional” class who interpret- to Turkish-Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, Rasit Pertev, was ed dreams for payment (St. Basil’s Letters, 210), Thus, [email protected] upbeat. “The dynamism created by this move will lead to the MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 12/40

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Our best wishes to all Greek Australians for a very Happy Easter in good health and family unity, with peace and harmony

HELLENIC FUNCTION, ENTERTAINMENT AND CONVENTION CENTRE Tel: (02) 6281 0899 Fax: (02) 6282 4487 Matilda Street, Woden ACT 2606 FOT THE INFORMATION OF MEMBERS & GUESTS

GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AUSTRALIA – PARISH & COMMUNITY OF BELMORE

Open Days The parish, community and Come and join us All Saints Grammar wish the BHMA and its readers a blessed and holy Easter. Senior School Open Morning 31 Forsyth St (off Kingsgrove Rd), South Belmore Wednesday 9 May 2007, 9am - 11am Scholarships for 2008 To register your attendance, Yrs 7 - 10 Saturday 12 May 2007 telephone 9718 7715 Applications are now invited from new applicants and continuing Junior School Open Morning students. Scholarships for full or part remission of tuition fees are 54 Hampden Rd, Lakemba available and will be awarded based on the results of the ACER Thursday 10 May 2007, 9am - 11:30am Cooperative Scholarship Testing Program.

To register your attendance, Pen & paper applications close on 12 April 2007 with on-line telephone 9740 5938 applications closing on 13 April 2007.

For application forms and more information, please call 9718 7715 or email [email protected] or visit our website at www.allsaints.nsw.edu.au MARCH 2007 14/42 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Health

HEALTH ‘FLU VACCINE : NOW IS THE TIME FOR YOUR ‘FLU SHOT! and sneezes of an infected person which create za attack, the body can mount a much quicker Now’s the time!!!...... talk to your family little droplets which hang in the air. These and larger response to it. doctor about the flu vaccine. droplets are then inhaled by other people. The The best time to be vaccinated is before NEWS infection starts in the nose and throat of the influenza occurs in the community. This is Most people are aware of the benefits of hav- recipient person and may spread further down usually Autumn, but vaccination can still take ing a vaccination each year to protect them- WITH DR. THEO PENKLIS into the lungs which can result in bronchitis or place in the first few months of Winter. selves against influenza. pneumonia. The influenza vaccine is strongly recommend- The National Health and Medical Research Influenza is a highly contagious infection of The patient with influenza will typically com- ed for all adults aged 65 years and over, all res- Council now recommends that all people over the nose, throat and lungs. Its effects are rapid- plain of feeling cold shivers or a high temper- idents of nursing homes, adults and children 65 years of age should have an additional vac- ly felt throughout the whole body. Every year ature which may come on suddenly, aching over 6 months of age with chronic disorders of cine known as the PNEUMOCOCCAL VAC- during the winter months, most parts of the muscles (or myalgia) and joint pains, a sore the heart and lungs, or with diabetes, or kidney CINE. This vaccine is now provided free to all world experience an outbreak of influenza throat and a bad cough. The person feels very disorders, or blood disorders, and severe asth- Australians over 65 years of age. This winter known as ‘flu. unwell and may be tired and lethargic for sev- matics. be fully covered: add pneumococcal vaccina- eral days. tion to your ‘flu vaccine. Talk to your doctor Most young and fit people will recover fairly In addition, people who can transmit influenza about the pneumococcal vaccine and if you quickly from influenza, but for others, it can be Almost anyone can get influenza, but there are to persons at an increased risk such as staff at have previously been vaccinated, remember a a serious life-threatening illness. a number of ‘high risk’ groups who are likely nursing homes, nurses, volunteer workers and pneumococcal booster vaccination is required to be affected. persons who provide essential community after five years. Influenza is caused by a virus. There are two services should consider vaccination. main viruses which cause the disease, influen- The single most important preventative meas- Immunisation is there to protect you against za A and influenza B. Each year, the virus ure one can take is to be vaccinated against the The vaccine should not be given to anyone disease. changes slightly so that different forms of one ‘flu. The vaccine is a single injection which who suffers from severe egg or chicken feath- Now is the time to talk to your doctor about of these viruses appear every year. The health can be given by your family doctor. er allergies. The vaccine is a safe vaccine. It both the pneumococcal vaccination and the authorities in this country go to great lengths to can cause redness or soreness at the injection influenza vaccination. try to anticipate the change so that a vaccine The aim of the immunisation is to expose an site, but severe side effects are extremely rare. can be developed. individual to either a dead or inactive virus so Inactivated influenza vaccine has been avail- that the body can mount an antibody response. able for over fifty years. Since that time, the * The information given in this article is of a general Influenza is generally spread by ‘droplet infec- The response is remembered by the immune formulation has been continually improved nature and readers should seek advice from their own tion’. That means it is spread by the coughs system so that if it is exposed to a real influen- resulting in far less adverse reactions. medical practitioner before embarking on any treatment.

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The ProviCare Foundation is a mission of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/43 Modern Greek Public Speaking Competition St. Euphemia High School students Strive for Excellence!

On Tuesday, 13 February 2007, our Year 12 students com- peted in the Annual Modern Greek Public Speaking Competition held at St. Spyridon College. Senior students from the three Greek Orthodox Colleges, participated and Kostas Vgenopoulos, Flora Giannakos and Denise Roditis represented our school. They chose to speak about the top- ics of “friendship” and “their dreams and ambitions for the future.”

All three speeches were of the highest quality and the audi- ence admired the outstanding level of our students’ vocab- ulary, their mature way of thinking and their excellent pre- sentations.

Kostas Vgenopoulos won first prize and Flora Giannakos won second prize.

We congratulate all the students from all the Colleges, All Saints, St. Euphemia and St. Spyridon for their outstanding presentations as well as their teachers who prepared them!

Limited positions are available in some classes. For details please contact: St. Euphemia College High School, 202 Stacey Street, Bankstown NSW 2200 Phone: (02) 97968240 Fax: (02) 97907354 Email: [email protected] MARCH 2007 16/44 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

CLINICAL INSIGHTS INTO HEALTH AND NATURAL SOLUTIONS

The healthy vegetarian diet:

Food group Minimum servings/day Grains 6 servings to be made up of a combination BY CHRISTINA SCALONE* of: slice of wholemeal bread; ½ cup of cooked grain or cereal, or wholemeal pasta; BHSc, Dip. Bot. Med, Dip. brown or basmati rice Hom, Dip. Nut Legumes and pulses 5 servings to be made up of a combination of: 1/2 cup cooked beans, peas, lentils or tofu Vegetables 4 servings to be made up of a combination VEGETARIAN DIET of: ½ cup cooked vegetables or 1 cup raw or ½ cup fresh vegetable juice The vegetarian diet is defined as one avoiding all animal meat, Fruit 2 servings to be made up of a combination including fish and poultry. of: ½ cup fruit or juice or ¼ cup dried fruit Plant oils 2 servings to be made up of a combination of: ¼ cup nuts or 1 avocado Vegetarians who avoid meat but do eat animal products, such as cheese, milk and eggs are known as ovo-lacto vegetarians. Avoiding vegetarian deficiencies: [Ovo = egg; Lacto = milk and cheese] Ovo-vegetarians are ones who avoid animal flesh and dairy but consumes eggs. Nutrients Food sources (vegetarian) Calcium 8 servings to be made up of a combination Lacto-vegetarians are ones who avoid animal flesh and eggs of:1/2 cup of either cow’s milk, yogurt, but consumes dairy. fortified fruit juice or tempeh, or ¼ cup almonds,; or 1 cup cooked or 2 cups of raw Those who avoid all animal products are referred to as pure of either broccoli, bok choy, cabbage kale or mustard greens vegetarians or vegans. Iron Green leafy vegetables, peas, whole grains, enriched cereals and legumes are good Pesco-vegetarians are ones who avoid terrestrial animal flesh sources of iron. But this iron is not but consume fish and seafood. absorbed as well as the iron in meat. Combining these foods with foods high in vitamin C such as citrus fruits, kiwi fruit Semi/partial vegetarians are ones who eat primarily plant- can increase absorption of vegetable iron. based foods and some animal products. Zinc Whole grains, nuts, dried beans, wheat germ, tofu, blackstrap molasses History of vegetarianism: has also been shown to reduce one’s chance of developing dia- Iodine Sea vegetables or iodized salt Essential fatty acids 2 servings: to be made up of a combination We have long held to the belief that our ancestors were prima- betes, osteoporosis or high blood pressure, forming kidney of 1 tsp of flaxseed oil; or 3 tsp of canola rily meat eaters, always hunting down the animals as their pri- stones or gallstones. Vegetarian diets are also associated with oil or 1 tsp of ground flaxseeds or ¼ cup of mary source of nourishment. But in fact, some 10,000 years ago increased longivity. walnuts (It is advisable to reduce the man relied heavily on what he could find growing where he The high fibre content, rich source of phytochemicals (plant consumption of vegetable oils such as sunflower, safflower and canola oil as they lived- wild greens and vegetables. So his diet was 90% plant chemicals) and the abundance of antioxidants found in plant are high in omega-6 fats. Also cold-pressed food. Later on as animals were domesticated, consumption of foods are all thought to play a role in fighting cancer. oils are a better option.) meat increased. Vegetarian diets can be kind to your waist, as whole grains, Vitamin B12 3 servings to be made up of a combination The earliest vegetarian diet, long before the term ‘vegetarian’ fruits and vegetables tend to “fill you up before they fill you of: ½ cup cow’s milk, or ¾ cup of yogurt, 1 large egg, or supplement of vitamin B12 was coined, was the ‘Pythagorean diet’, way back in the sixth out”. esp. in vegans and elderly people. century BC. The Greek philosopher and mathematician, Riboflavin Whole grains, dairy Pythagoras favoured the vegetarian diet. He strongly believed Risks associated with vegetarian diet: Vitamin D Daily sun exposure, cow’s milk, fortified in the reincarnation of the soul and was against killing living Though a vegetarian diet may help prevent many chronic dis- cereals creatures. His regime included cereals, bread, honey, fruits, eases, an unhealthy vegetarian diet can create a different set of vegetables, milk and raw eggs. medical problems. A daily diet of rice and vegetables may be It is very important to monitor iron and vitamin B12 in vegetar- Pythagoras wasn’t the only philosopher to advise that a vege- “vegetarian” but far from a healthy and balanced diet. When ian women, children and elderly individuals. tarian diet was a healthier alternative to a meat-eating diet. meat, fish, poultry, dairy foods and eggs are missing in the diet, Other philosophers like Hippocrates, Socrates, Plato, Seneca, several important nutrients could also be missing in action. All In pregnancy- Folic acid supplementation is important for all Ovid and Virgil all advocated the vegetarian diet. vegetarians need to make sure that they are consuming ade- pregnant women. Other nutrients specifically important in case quate amounts of protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B12, calcium of pregnant vegetarian women are iron, zinc, vitamin B12, cal- As we are in Lent, and in the Greek Orthodox faith, we believe and vitamin A and D. cium and vitamin D. fasting is a way to cleanse our bodies and souls. We restrict in our diet all animal products; in a way, we follow the vegetarian Protein is one of the most important elements for the mainte- In young children- the major nutritional challenges are to diet. In order to achieve this without making our bodies defi- nance of good health and vitality and is of prime importance for ensure adequate protein, vitamin D, B12 and zinc. You can cient in essential nutrients, some helpful guidelines are provid- growth and development of all body components. It is the introduce nuts, seeds, nuts and seeds butter, avocado and veg- ed in this article. major building material of our tissues. Protein is made up of etable oils to help meet energy and fat requirements. small units called amino acids. Our body can make all of the So let’s have a look at the benefits and risks associated with the amino acids except nine, which are known as essential amino Adolescence- due to their high energy requirement, ensure fre- vegetarian diet and what are the best ways to maximize the ben- acids. When a food contains all the essential amino acids, it is quent snacks and meals made up of energy-dense foods like efits. termed as “complete protein”. Animal products such as meat, nuts, cereals, pulses, legumes, root vegetables, fish and dairy. A fish, dairy and poultry are examples of complete proteins. Plant well planned lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet is satisfactory for ado- Health benefits of a vegetarian diet: foods often lack one or more of the essential amino acids, but lescents and children. There is also considerable scientific research showing the ben- become complete when combined. For example combining efits of the vegetarian diet. In fact it has been shown to be asso- grains with legumes results in a complete protein, as the two Conclusion: some people choose to become vegetarian as a ciated with a lower risk of virtually every chronic disease. For sources complement each other. With a varied diet of grains, healthy lifestyle choice or for ethical reasons. During short peri- example numerous population-based studies have shown that legumes, fruits and vegetables, a vegetarian diet can be ods of time like Lent, a pure vegetarian diet is acceptable. vegetarians are nearly 50 percent less likely to die from cancer designed to have a complete protein content. However, for long periods of time, though the vegetarian diet is or heart disease than are non-vegetarians. The vegetarian diet good, we now believe that including small amounts of fish and Vegetarians who include dairy foods in their diet need to avoid some animal foods and dairy – such as eggs, cheese – i.e. the loading their plates with saturated fat-ladden, full-fat dairy ovo-lacto-vegetarian diet gives you more optimal nutritional foods such as whole milk and cheeses. These can lead to clog- intake. THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside The Greek Australian Greece email: VEMA [email protected] ging of the arteries and heart disease. The vegetarian diet that is JULY 2006 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 In this issue... Our Primate’s View POLITICAL ‘PARTIES’ AND THE NATIONAL ‘WHOLE’ Christina Scalone is a very experienced and successful PAGE 5/23 VEMA loaded with high calorie cookies, cakes, candy and sweetened * Leaders strike drinks are also harmful. naturopath with over 20 years experience. She holds a 'mammoth' The oldest circulating Degree in Health Science, a Diploma in Botanical Medi- FOOD & WINE Homemade chocolate delights reform deal

PAGE 17/35 The Prime Minister and state and territo- Australia. ry leaders have agreed upon a national "We should not forget that this requires cine, Diploma in Homoeopathy and a Diploma in Nutri- reform agenda to boost productivity in continued national cooperation in the area of Greek newspaper the areas of health, education, business health," Mr Iemma said. regulation and infrastructure. "It's not for the next two to three years, these are measures that are required for the There had been dispute over funding for next 20 to 30 years." the changes and how the benefits would be General guidelines to avoid nutritional deficiencies: measured and split between governments. World Cup bid But the deal has been finalised at today's tion. She has maintained a full time practice, has held a Council of Australian Governments Mr Howard says he and the leaders have (COAG) meeting, which lasted for less than agreed to back a potential bid to host the three hours. 2018 soccer World Cup. The leaders have agreed to set up a nation- "All governments agreed enthusiastically outside Greece al reform council to oversee the changes. that if the national body, the Football Prime Minister John Howard says an enor- Federation of Australia, put in a bid for the mous amount has been achieved at the meet- 2018 World Cup, then all governments ing. would support that bid and support that bid Prime Minister, John Howard Variety is critical and every vegetarian meal should ensure ade- position as a senior practioner/ naturopathic consultant, a "This has been another very constructive enthusiastically," he said. COAG meeting at which an enormous "It will deal with things that give us the Italy wins amount has been achieved in a spirit of competitive edge in the world, like skills ... Daylight saving cooperation and a desire to get practical and literacy," he said. World Cup results for the Australian people," he said. The Prime Minister, John Howard, says "The major outcome has been agreement Health Victoria, New South Wales, the ACT and Tel: (02) 9559 7022 for the 4th time on a huge, indeed mammoth national reform Tasmania have agreed to look at synchronis- agenda." Mr Iemma says the reforms include a $4 ing the start of daylight saving each year. clinic manager and trainer for Blackmores and is a clinic PAGE 20/38 Mr Howard says the establishment of the billion, five-year mental health national "I think a modest step can be made forward reform council is the most important deci- action plan for services, accommodation and towards greater uniformity in that area and quate protein by combining legumes, seeds, and nuts with sion made by the leaders. better support. Victoria has indicated its broad agreement," He says the Federal Government will dele- He says the plan looks at ways to spend Mr Howard said. gate a chair and the states will decide on a mental health funding more effectively. "New South Wales will consider it. deputy. "It is about thinking smarter about the dol- "If it is agreed that New South Wales, "We will be asking the various members of lars that we have," Mr Iemma said. Victoria and the ACT will commence day- COAG to bring forward suggestions for Mr Howard says mental health "desperate- light saving earlier, that's a matter, I empha- student supervisor as well as a lecturer at the Australian reform," he said. ly needed more money". sise, for them." The state and territory leaders, including "People have been crying out for money for Tasmanian Premier Paul Lennon says it is Fax: (02) 9559 7033 New South Wales Premier Morris Iemma, mental health for quite a long time," he said. a positive step. have welcomed the agreement. "It's long overdue." "With the agreement of Victoria, New grains or including egg. So a healthy vegetarian meal should "It is all about providing more opportunity The package also includes increased public South Wales and the ACT to look at getting for our citizens ... and we're very pleased health training. into the real world and joining Tasmania that we've reached a framework for that to That includes 150 extra training places for with extended daylight saving into the proceed," Mr Iemma said. doctors in Queensland, 60 more medical future, it is an important lifestyle reform," he Queensland Premier Peter Beattie says the school places in Western Australia and said. College of Natural Therapies. She also maintains her own deal will bolster Australia's financial posi- another 60 to be shared by Adelaide "If you want to see a good lifestyle, just tion. University and Flinders University in South have a look at Tasmania." uro Funeral Service E-mail: consist of a combination of the following food groups in order Children beaten Eëëçíéêü Ïéêïãåíåéáêü Ãñáöåßï Ôåëåôþí [email protected] private practice with successful results. by loved ones Tel: (02) 9747 6604 PAGE 18/36 Available 24 hrs 114543 to avoid nutritional deficiencies. MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 17/45

Consumers put rate blues behind them Bourse rejects with shopping spree Marfin’s bid

By Colin Brinsden Stevens indicated last week that he was in no for Bank rush to raise interest rates any further at this Australians appear to have put last year’s stage following a moderation in inflation pres- interest rate rises behind them, kicking off sures. of Cyprus 2007 with a shopping spree. Although he said he wouldn’t hesitate raising rates in an election year if prices pressures stat- Cyprus’ stock exchange rejected a A jump in retail spending in January coincid- ed to build again. takeover bid by Cyprus-based Marfin ed with a fall in petrol prices, which provided Much of the growth in retail spending was in Popular Bank for the Bank of Cyprus. extra cash for households after seeing their household goods, which jumped 2.9 per cent, budgets dented by three interest rate increases as well as a 1.1 per cent increase in food retail- Marfin’s bid “cannot be examined” in 2006. ing, and a 0.7 per cent rise in department because it was preceded by a rival bid from Shoppers spent a seasonally adjusted $18.6 stores. Greece’s Piraeus Bank for Marfin Popular, billion in January, according to data released However, recreational goods spending fell 2.4 the CSE board said. by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) per cent. “Marfin Popular Bank’s public proposal, recently, a 0.9 per cent increase on December. “The biggest surprise was the strength in food which followed, was an action prohibited” This was the fastest pace of monthly growth sales, which had their biggest rise since mid centage points from gross domestic product by the regulation, a CSE announcement said. since before the November rate rise, and com- 2005. This could reflect the impact of the (GDP). Under Greek and Cypriot law, a company pared with economists’ expectations for a 0.5 drought on food sales,” Kieran Davies, chief “The fact that Australia is still running a size- subject to a takeover bid is banned from any per cent increase. economist at ABN AMRO. able trade deficit in the midst of a commodities activity that would obstruct the bid - such as “Households are clearly demonstrating a con- However, the drought is clearly having a boom and a strongly performing world econo- launching a counterbid or a public offer for a siderable degree of resilience in the face of severe impact on Australia’s trade position. my is particularly concerning,” opposition third company. three rate hikes,” said Royal Bank of Canada Other data today shows demand for foreign treasury spokesman Wayne Swan said. Marfin Popular launched separate bids for senior economist Su-Lin Ong. products and a subdued export sector - partly “The continued under-performance of export Bank of Cyprus and Piraeus in mid-January, “The consumption fundamentals remain firm due to a slump in drought affected farm volumes is a glaring example of our failure to aimed at creating one of the largest banks in given the strong labour market, buoyant con- exports - has seen a massive widening in seize the opportunities that the world econom- Greece and Cyprus and one of the 25 largest sumer confidence, and general uptrend in equi- Australia’s current account deficit. ic environment has presented.” banks in Europe. ty markets - not withstanding this week’s cor- The deficit blew out to 15.1 billion in the final Treasurer Peter Costello slashed his econom- But those plans have become increasingly rection,” she said. three months of 2006, from $12.6 billion in the ic growth forecast for the 2006/07 financial bogged down in the past two weeks by con- Still, signs of increased spending is unlikely September quarter. year to 2.5 per cent from 3.25 per cent in De- flicting legal and regulatory claims between to be too much of a concern to the reserve bank The government statistician calculates that the cember, due to the expected dramatic impact Marfin Popular and Piraeus over who when it holds its monthly board meeting. difference between exports and imports in the the big dry will have on farm production. launched their bid first. Reserve Bank of Australia governor Glenn fourth quarter - net exports - will cut 1.3 per- AAP (AP)

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia St. Euphemia Greek Orthodox College St Euphemia – Off to the Semi-finals

Congratulations to the Year 6 students of St Euphemia College who won the first round in the children’s television quiz show called “It’s Academic”. Their excellent general knowledge, mathematical and language skills have enabled them to progress to the next stage of the competition, the semi-finals. Their accomplishments so far have made our school very proud. We wish them all the very best for the semi-finals.

Are you caring for someone with cancer? Appearing in the photo below are the students with the Year 6 Coordinator, Mrs Xanthoudakis, and the Principal, Mr Yiangou. Call The Cancer Council Greek Helpline on 130 301 449 Thursday 29 March between 10am and 4pm

Speak to an expert who can offer you support and information to help you care for someone with cancer. The Cancer Council is holding the inaugural Greek Cancer Carer Call-in on Thursday March 29, giving people who are looking after someone with cancer the opportunity to ask questions and seek support for them and the person they are caring for.

Who are carers? In NSW there are almost 800,000 carers accounting for about 11% of the total population. Carers are usually family members who provide support to adults or children who have an illness, chronic condition, disability or are frail aged. Carers may be partners, husbands, wives, parents, children, or any other relatives or friends. Carers looking after someone with cancer may be providing different types of support, across a range of situations. They may be helping with the tasks of daily living if the person they're looking after cannot manage independently. This might include feeding, bathing, dressing, toileting and giving medications.

In other situations, where the patient is more physically independent, carers might be John Georgaklis, Eugeena Pantelis, Yanni Papadopoulos, Pano Mitrothanasis, Curtis Irvine, providing support with finances or transport. Stephen Bobb, Christopher Butler, Alexander Lyras, Stephanie Janes, Sophey Tsolakki, Con Parousis, Matthew Stathakis, Cassandra Kokotatsios, Billy Papas, Michael Kontos, Andrew In many situations, carers are mostly involved in providing emotional support for a Kareklas, Andrew Diakanastasis. patient, or other family members. If you're a carer, it's okay to look for help - it doesn't mean you're not coping, and it's Limited positions available for Kindergarten to Year 6 enrolments for 2007 and important that you look after yourself too! 2008. Please contact the school on (02) 9796 8240. MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 18/46

FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIATION OF OUR MOST HOLY LADY, THE THEOTOKOS AND EVER VIRGIN MARY Introduction On the right side of the icon the Virgin sits on In faith and obedience to the will of God, Mary an elevated seat, indicating that as the Mother The Feast of the Annunciation of Our Most replied to the angel, “Behold, I am the hand- of God she is “greater in honor than the cheru- Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin maid of the Lord; let it be according to your bim, and beyond compare more glorious than Mary is celebrated on March 25 each year. The word.” Upon her response, the angel departed. the seraphim, who without corruption gave Feast commemorates the announcement by birth to God the Word.” In her left hand she the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary that It is on the Feast of the Annunciation, that holds a spindle of scarlet yarn (5) which our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Son of Orthodox Christians commemorate both the depicts the task she was assigned of preparing God, would become incarnate and enter into divine initiative of God, whereby He took on the purple and scarlet material to be used in this world through her womb. flesh from the Virgin for our salvation, and the 2. The Virgin Mary, who was chosen to be the making the veil for the Temple in Jerusalem. human response, whereby Mary freely accept- Mother of God (detail). Her right hand is raised in a gesture of accept- Biblical Story ed the vocation offered to her. He elected to ance in response to Gabriel’s message (6). Her become man, and He desired to do this with The Archangel is shown with his feet spread posture expresses willing cooperation with The biblical story of the Feast of the the willing agreement of her whom He chose apart as if he is running to share the good news God’s plan of salvation. The three stars on her Annunciation is found in the first chapter of as His mother. Mary could have refused, for with Mary (3). In his left hand is a staff, the garments (7) represent that she was a Virgin the Gospel of Luke (1:26-39). The Archangel she was not a passive instrument, but an active symbol of a messenger. His right hand is before, during, and after the birth of Christ. Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary, who was participant with a free and positive part to play extended toward Mary as he delivers the mes- living in Nazareth, and said to her, “Hail, O in God’s plan for our salvation. Thus, when on sage and announces the blessing bestowed favored one, the Lord is with you.” Mary was this and other feasts the Orthodox Church hon- upon her by God (4). perplexed and wondered what kind of greeting ors the Theotokos, the Mother of God, it is not this was. just because God chose her but also because she herself chose to follow His will. The angel told her not to be afraid, for she had found favor with God. He said, “You will con- Icon of the Feast ceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and The icon of the Annunciation is one that pres- 5. Her left hand holds a spindle of crimson will be called the Son of the Most High; and ents the joy of the announcement of the com- yarn depicting the task that she had of making the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ing of Christ. It is an icon of bright colors, the veil of the Temple in Jerusalem (detail). father David, and he will reign over the house depicting the Archangel Gabriel (1), who has 3. The position of Archangel Gabriel's feet of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there will descended from heaven, and the Virgin Mary suggest that he is running to share the news be no end.” (2), who has been chosen to be the Mother of with Mary (detail). God. Mary responded to the angel by asking how this could happen since she had no husband. The angel told her that the Holy Spirit and the power of God would come upon her, and that the child to be born of her would be called holy, the “Son of God.” 6. Mary's right hand is raised in acceptance of The angel then proceeded to tell the Virgin Gabriel's message (detail). Mary that her cousin Elizabeth had conceived 4. The Archangel's right hand is extended a son in her old age (John the Baptist), and 1. The Archangel Gabriel presents the good towards Mary as he announces the blessing affirmed that with God nothing is impossible. news of the coming of Christ to Mary (detail). bestowed upon her [Mary] by God (detail).

7. The three stars on the garments of the Theotokos represent that she was a Virgin before, during, and after the birth of Christ (detail).

8. A depiction of the divine realm and the Holy Spirit coming upon the Theotokos (detail).

At the top of the icon the segment of a circle represents the divine realm (8), from which three rays emerge. This demonstrates the action of the Holy Spirit coming upon her.

Orthodox Christian Celebration of the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos

The Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos is celebrated with the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom which is conducted on the morning of the Feast and pre- ceded by a Matins (Orthros) service. A Great MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 19/47

Multiple birth babies more than bundles of joy By Rosemary Desmond

Having a baby is a life-changing experi- ence at the best of times - but two or more at a time represents a whole new set of challenges.

Twins, triplets, quads and quintuplets may bring much joy, but with it comes added complications which families of single birth children are usually glad they don't have. And multiple births are becoming more common in Australia, according to one of the country's leading figures in the field, profes- sor of psychology at Perth's Curtin Universi- ty David Hay. "In the last 10 years, the rates of twins have gone up from about one birth in 90 to about one in 70, so it has been quite an appreciable difference," Prof Hay sais. Multiple births also are more common in older women - a factor that budding parents often did not consider. "Everyone wants to pay off a bit of their mortgage and then have their kids when they are a bit older," Prof Hay said. "But they don't realise they are more likely to have twins in that situation." costs associated it." In contrast, multiple births rates in women However, twins at school often have social undergoing IVF have been dropping because advantages over other children. clinics were now only putting back two fer- "They have learned to take turns and share tilised eggs at most. things," Prof Hay said. Advances in medical science are contribut- "When you go into the preschool environ- ing to the higher incidence of multiple births ment, it's a pretty scary place with 25 other of babies born pre-term and doctors are kids. becoming more adept at keeping alive very "But if you've got your twin there as well, tiny babies. that gives you a kind of back-up." Research in Australia is now turning to the Cont. from previous page full of grace, the Lord is with you." A recent study conducted by the Queen- psychology of twins and other multiples. sland University of Technology (QUT) of Many twins have turned out to be highly preschool twins showed they could have a Vespers is conducted on the evening before the Kontakion (Plagal of the Fourth Tone) successful and competitive, such as day of the Feast. Scripture readings for the To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, hav- distinct advantage when they reached pre- Australian cricketers Mark and Steve Waugh, school. Feast are the following: At Vespers: Genesis ing been delivered from peril, I, your city, ded- born in 1965. 28:10-17; Ezekiel 43:27—44:4; Proverbs 9:1- icate the victory festival as a thank offering. In "We are actually doing a study now right But sibling rivalry also can have a down- throughout the country where we are looking 11. At the Matins: Luke 1:39-49, 56. At the your irresistible might, keep me safe from all side, particularly if family members show Divine Liturgy: Hebrews 2:11-18; Luke 1:24- trials, that I may call out to you: "Hail, unwed- at preschool twins and then coming back to preference to one twin over the other, Prof see them next year when they are starting 38. ded bride!" Hay said. The Feast of the Annunciation in the Greek school to see if in fact there is a plus about "One of the things I'm very strong on is per- being a twin," Prof Hay said. Orthodox Church also marks a day of national Resources suading, not just parents, but often grandpar- celebration for the people of Greece and those Queensland claims to have the highest rate ents who are asking questions like which one of multiple births in the country - something around the world of Greek descent. It was on Festival Icons for the Christian Year by John Baggley is doing better at school," Prof Hay said. March 25, 1821 when Greece officially (Crestwood, NY: St. Vladimir's Seminary Press, 2000), pp. Prof Hay says is probably due more to high- 21-30. "That is just setting things up for a long his- declared its independence and began the revo- er interstate migration to the Sunshine State tory of comparison." than any other factor. lution that would eventually give the nation its The Festal Menaion. Translated by Mother Mary (South Parents often stress about whether to give Queensland Premier Peter Beattie, himself freedom after 400 years of rule by the Canaan, PA: St. Tikhon’s Seminary Press, 1969) pp. 60- their multiples separate birthday presents and Ottomans. In addition to the services for the 61. the father of 21-year-old twins Matthew and parties. Denis, said this week that the state had wit- Feast, festivities and parades are held and offi- The Incarnate God: The Feasts of Jesus Christ and the And there is the added complication of cial proclamations are offered throughout the nessed a 40 per cent increase in multiple Virgin Mary, Catherine Aslanoff, editor and Paul whether one twin could be invited to some- births in the past nine years. world in recognition of Greek Independence Meyendorff, translator (Crestwood, NY: St. Vladimir’s one else's birthday party without inviting the Day. Seminary Press, 1995). "There are more than 15,000 Queensland- other. born twins, triplets and quadruplets aged 10 The Life of the Virgin Mary, The Theotokos, written and "Parents do get worried about that," Prof Hymns of the Feast years or under and having twin boys of our compiled by Holy Apostles Convent (Buena Vista, CO: Hay said. own, my wife Heather and I know how a 1989). But these are only relatively minor dilem- Apolytikion (Fourth Tone) multiple birth can change your life," Mr mas. Beattie said. Today marks the crowning of our salvation The Synaxarion: The Lives of the Saints of the Orthodox Research has found parents of multiples Church, Vol. 4, compiled by Hieromonk Makarios of Last week was Australian Multiple Birth and the revelation of the mystery before all also suffer higher rates of depression and iso- ages. For the Son of God becomes the son of Simonos Petra and translated from the French by Mother Awareness Week, which aims to raise aware- Maria Rule and Mother Joanna Burton (Chalkidike, lation, in a world built to cope with single- ness in the community of the challenges and the Virgin, and Gabriel proclaims the grace. Greece: Holy Convent of the Annunciation of Our Lady, child prams on escalators and in supermar- Wherefore, we also cry out with him, "Hail, O 2003) pp. 227-232 opportunities for multiple birth families. kets. Prof Hay says it's also a chance for govern- Getting multiples to sleep can also be a ments and the community to consider the highly stressful experience for parents. financial and other needs of multiple birth The Greek Australian Vema And when it comes to school, it can be families. financially draining. "With (Treasurer) Peter Costello saying `A "If you have two kids born a year apart, you baby for each parent and one for the country', The oldest circulating Greek can pass schoolbooks and clothes onto the more help would be good in this situation," next one," Prof Hay said. he said. "But with twins, you have to have two of newspaper outside Greece everything at any time, so there are a lot of AAP MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 20/48 Travel The mediaeval allure of Monemvasia A popular destination among Greeks and foreigners alike, the old town is a picture- perfect backdrop to leisurely walks, atmos- pheric weddings and eventastings of the local Monemvasian wines

STELLA SEVASTOPOULOU

Some have called Monemvasia the Gibraltar of Greece, others have likened it to Mont St Michel in France and St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall - mediaeval pilgrimage shrines that are similarly perched on rocks that break out of the sea’s calm. But Monemvasia is undoubted- ly unique because as a mediaeval fortress in Greece it benefits from the light of the Mediterranean sun and, unlike some other tourist attractions in this country, it is relative- ly unspoilt by tourism’s uglier, overrun side. This fortified mediaeval town, built on a dra- matic eruption of reddish-brown rock, sur- rounded by indigo sea, offers visitors a quieter Monemvasia’s rock as seen from a distance The fortified mediaeval town sits on a dramatic reddish-brown rock, surrounded by indigo sea vacation option, with authentic character, although the truth is that it has been getting all you’ll need quite a few more! Many Italians, those of Mystra and Mani was given back to Monemvasia and around. Once past the bridge the more popular over the past few years. Ideal Germans and French started buying property the Byzantines, in return for setting free that joins the rock with the mainland, you walk either for a winter getaway, with the ‘rock’ get- within the fortified town in the eighties and Villehardouin, who had been captured in the towards the fortress’ only entrance - which is ting ‘atmospheric’in the grey tones of this time have renovated the buildings, sticking to the battle of Pelagonia. Under the rule of from where Monemvasia gets its name (moni of year, or for a beautiful spring break, full of guidelines of the Archaeological Society and Byzantine Emperor Michael VIII Paleologus, emvasi means single entrance). Once you have walks, great meals, poppies and daisies. thus maintaining - or rather enhancing - the Monemvasia became an important maritime entered the fortified town, a stroll down the During the summer months you can enjoy this site’s characteristics. Apparently, throughout and commercial centre, especially famous for main cobbled street leads to the main square, region of the Peloponnese’s Laconia and also history the kastro - as the fortified town is its wine called Malvasia, which even where you will find the cathedral, or enjoy the beaches. Of course, climbing those called by the locals - was always inhabited. Shakespeare has referred to as “Malmsey”. ‘Mitropolis’ of Christ in Chains (Elkomenou steps to the upper level of the mediaeval town My first visit to Monemvasia was to a sum- Indeed it is mentioned in three of his plays: Christou), which is named after an icon which, might be given a miss in the heat. mer wedding there a few years back, which Love’s Labour’s Lost, Henry IV and Richard however, was stolen and taken to Constanti- Europe has realised the importance of its took place in the mediaeval town. Thing is it III. In the last, it is used as a means to kill nople during the reign of Byzantine Emperor chateaux, mediaeval castles and stately homes wasn’t the only wedding taking place there Richard’s brother, the Duke of Clarence: his Isaac Angelos. The church was founded in the by keeping them in tip-top condition and mak- that day, and the experience was somewhat assassins think of drowning him in a large cask 12th century, although its present state sug- ing them accessible to the public. Here in surreal as we walked along the narrow cobbled (butt) of the sweet stuff. gests it was completed in 1691. Opposite this Greece, there are still quite a few historical streets - high heels getting caught in the cracks In recent history, the wine tradition of church is the domed church of Agios Pavlos, buildings and sites that need to be given the between the stones, which have been ‘pol- Monemvasia has witnessed a great decline, which had been transformed into a mosque by proper attention in order to become ‘site attrac- ished’by time - in order to find the right church although there are new efforts taking place, the Turks and now serves as a museum. Du- tions’ to their full potential, rather than sad and bride. In its Byzantine heyday, there were such as those of the Doukas Estate - the only ring Ottoman reign, the Christian cathedral examples of deteriorating culture. The Tatoi - 40 churches in the lower town. Nowadays, vineyard in the area that is producing biologi- and the mosque were functioning side by side. with all its beautiful artifacts (which were in there are three in full ‘service’ - the cathedral, cal wines, from mavrofilero and kydonitsa Past the square and moving towards the sea, the news recently) - could have been a muse- or Mitropolis (dedicated to Christ in Chains), grapes. The latter variety had disappeared from you meet the church Hrisafitissa. Here you um by now, for example. In terms of mediae- Agios Pavlos, and Hrisafitissa - plus the exqui- the area, and has now been ‘returned’ via the also get a good view of the upper town, which val heritage, many would argue that Rhodes’ site Agia Sophia in the upper town. One can- estate’s efforts to breathe new life into the is quite a hike to get to, but worth the effort, Old Town - the oldest inhabited mediaeval not argue that such a place is picture-perfect wine-making tradition here. Situated in the because the Agia Sophia up there is a unique town in Europe - is probably the best example for weddings, hence its popularity. My recent Zarakas region, past the natural Fjord of church, built in the 13th century by of how tourism and cultural heritage can join visit could be categorised as a ‘family outing’ Yeraka and the vicinity of Lambokambo, this Andronikus II. Among the many ruins of the forces in the best possible way, but there are and, indeed, this is one place where families vineyard can be visited by the public in the upper town, you will come across a vast cistern other places heading in the same direction. are welcomed, and where young and old will summer months and during trigos (grape-har- which was used to ensure water supply during Monemvasia might be a smaller site, but it has have a good time. Kids will enjoy exploring vesting season, which is around the end of a siege. a lot of potential for tourism - something which the mediaeval town just as much as the par- August, tel 2732-051371). There is also a A trip to nearby Yerakas is also worthwhile, is growing in the region. Back in the 14th cen- ents, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants church on the estate dedicated to Agios as this beautiful natural fjord comes complete tury, Monemvasia’s geographical location and tourist shops in the lower section of the Trifonas, protector of those that cultivate the with great fish taverns. And for a taste of true aided this town to gain importance as a com- town to satisfy thirst and hunger. vine, and Agios Savvas. Monemvasian delights, try a visit to the village mercial centre and as a seaport, serving as the No signs of an ancient civilisation have been The second Byzantine period of Monemva- of Agios Ioannis, where you will find a taver- Greek Byzantine capital. Nowadays, its loca- found here, probably because of the difficulty sia ended in 1460, when in order to defend na named Athas. Here you can sample some tion at the tip of the Peloponnese’s first leg, of finding fresh water on the rock, while on the itself against the Ottoman empire, Monemva- saitia - a thin spinach pie, or gogles, home- with islands such as Elafonisos and Kythera opposite shore traces of a Mycenaean settle- sia first allied with Catalonian troops, then made macaroni smothered in butter and within easy reach, is attracting all the more vis- ment have been found. placed itself under the authority of the pope in cheese. In the village of Gefyra, which is situ- itors, but also foreign residents. The town was probably built in the 6th cen- Rome, followed by a Venetian rule from 1464 ated by the bridge that joins Monemvasia to “Not much has changed in Monemvasia in tury AD (around 583) by Byzantine Greeks to 1540, before it finally surrendered to the the mainland, you will also be able to try some recent history, apart from the greater develop- seeking refuge from the Slavic and Avaric Turks, remaining with them until 1690. Then fish dishes, but if you head on down the ment of the fortified town”, explains Athens- invaders of Greece. For 700 years it remained Venetian troops took it back again, and held on seafront, towards the end of the line of taver- based businessman Konstantinos Doukas under Byzantine rule - only briefly within that to the town until 1715, when again the Turks nas and cafes, you will find the Votsalo, a tav- (chairman of Doukas supermarkets) to the period being ruled by Franks. Monemvasia took over. The ‘tug-of-war’ ended for good in erna where Kyria Stavroula is in charge and Athens News. His family’s roots have not been was a seaport in a strategic position between 1821, when Monemvasia was the first fortifi- makes sure the food is homemade and whole- severed from their birth-place of Monemvasia, East (Constantinople and the Levant) and West cation that the Turks surrendered during the some. seeing as they are active here both in terms of (Italy and Europe) in the Middle Ages. Greek War of Independence. During the 19th A trip to the Richia Museum of Folklore (sit- wine-making and in terms of providing quali- In the 12th century Monemvasia withstood century and first half of the 20th century, uated in Richia, 25km from Monemvasia), or ty tourist accommodation at Villa Doukas. He attacks by the Arabs and the Normans. In Monemvasia remained a small country town to the Monastery of the Annunciation of the explains how “in the sixties you could buy one 1249, it was taken over by the Frankish cru- with few inhabitants, many having emigrated Virgin and Agios Georgios, near the village of of the half-ruined houses in the mediaeval saders, under the rule of Guillaume de abroad, or moved to Athens. However, over Yerakas, can also be planned. For rock town for 20,000 drachmas (around 80 euros). Villehardouin - the last Villehardouin prince of the last twenty years, the rock is now witness- climbers, there are caves in the vicinity to be Nowadays, they sell for 100 million drachmas Achaea and overlord of the Venetian Duchy of ing a new leash of life, seeing as the ruins there explored, such as that of Kastania (south of (300,000 euros) for a building which occupies the Archipelago and other Venetian territories are again becoming buildings: apart from the Monemvasia), and the Vri Cave, north of Mo- around 80-100 square metres. Of course, you in the Aegean Sea. It was the last region of private homes, this time hotels, shops, restau- nemvasia. have to consider that back in the sixties an Greece that had refused to surrender to them rants, bars and cafes are also there, in the serv- Photos by Stavros Sevastopoulos average wage was around 1,000 drachmas, so and only did so after a three-year siege. In ice of tourism. you were talking about 20 wages.” Nowadays, 1259 the castle of Monemvasia together with There are plenty of things to explore both in ATHENS NEWS , 16/02/2007 MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 21/49 Food & Wine Kitchen Essentials 1: The basic tools By Imogen Coward does not remove too thick a layer as with many multi sided graters are the most versatile. wrists!) but will last a life-time so long as vegies much of the goodness (and flavour) is they’re handled and cleaned properly so as to Much is said in cook books about the impor- contained in the flesh just beneath the skin. The mortar and pestle is perhaps used less avoid chipping the enamel. tance of using the finest ingredients. An essen- often than most of the above implements but it tial aspect of cooking that is often glossed over Bread-boards come in a variety of different is still handy to have. Perfect for cracking pep- A good frypan is also essential. Personally I however, is the choice of cooking utensils. styles and materials. Wood is not only more percorns, pounding nuts, grinding spices or prefer a wooden-handled, enamelled cast-iron Morning infomercials on TV and the cooking aesthetically pleasing but is also less likely to bruising herbs, it will be used more often than pan since it requires little additional greasing. utensils section in a major department store blunt your knives. Be sure to wash the board you would think. Be sure to look for a decent A reversible, enamelled cast-iron grill plate is offer an enormous range of dedicated equip- thoroughly and hang it up to dry after use to sized mortar and pestle (e.g. 2-3 cup capacity also a fantastic investment. Ribbed on one side ment and gadgets. There are egg slicers, spe- avoid the wood rotting or growing bacteria. is good for the average family), that is made and flat on the other, it can be used for grilling cialised peelers, a whisk for this and a whisk Replace it if the wood splits as food and bacte- out of stone (e.g. marble) and is heavy. They’re steaks, fish, making antipasto or pancakes. for that, multiple varieties of the humble pastry ria can accumulate in the splits. not cheap, but the Australian made ones are brush, not to mention the 50 million or so dif- often of a higher quality than imported ones. An excellent preparation for cleaning enam- ferent types of baking tins (high-sided, low- Spoons are, along with knives, are one of the elled ware, glass and glazed cookware is Le sided, round, rectangular, square, patterned, most often used cooking utensils. A wooden Stove top cooking Creuset “Pots & Pans” (usually available from novelty, non-stick, not non-stick, silicon...). spoon is great for stirring sauces, stews and so High quality steel pans are perfect for almost department stores). It removes the tougher on without the risk of scratching glass bowls or every type of cooking. It’s also worth investing cooked on food without damaging the pan’s As impressive as they may be, not only would metal saucepans. Those made out of bamboo in a couple of enamelled, cast iron pots (e.g. by surface and leaves the pan looking like new the average kitchen need another room added with a flat bottom and one rounded edge and Le Creuset or Le Chasseur) for stews or dish- without the need for heaving scrubbing. It’s just to accommodate the assembled tools and one pointy edge are particularly useful and are es which require stove-top cooking and then also an excellent product for cleaning the glass gadgets, but in most instances a handful of perfect for getting to the edges of the saucepan. baking. They are very functional and can be on ceramic stove-tops (be sure to check with basic, old fashioned implements will do the Along with a wooden spoon or two, a large used as the serving dish. They are expensive the manufacturers or the user’s manual first job just as easily and as well. Furthermore the metal serving spoon, slotted spoon and ladle, and heavy (only buy them if you have strong though). old-fashioned wood, steel and cast-iron items flat egg flipper and a metal spatula should just are also more hardy than their plastic/silicon about cover every type of cooking need from counterparts (no danger of melting/slicing stew to pancakes. through them!), resist wear and tear (including staining, scratching and so on) and last a life- Hand whisks come in a huge variety of shapes time (or even two). and sizes. The ‘jack of all trades’ is the stan- dard wire balloon-whisk. Perfect for whisking Unless you’re into specialised cooking, such eggs or even for mixing pancakes, it is handy as sugar-work or chocolate making, a handful to have a large and a small whisk (e.g. the bulb Stonehaven of basic cookware items should cover most of of the whisks are, respectively, the size of an your culinary needs. This month’s article looks orange and the size of a lime). Look for a ‘Stepping Stone’, at basic food preparation and stove-top cook- decent sized handle that is fat enough to be ing utensils. Next month’s article will explore comfortable to grip. Padthaway more specialised utensils for baking, deserts and sweets. A large, stainless steel colander with handles is Chardonnay, 2006  another handy, versatile and easy to clean tool. Food preparation It can be used not only for washing vegies but Fortunately, the big, overly buttery and A few high-quality steel knives (e.g. a French is also great for draining hot food such as  powerful Australian Chardonnays of recent chef’s knife, paring knife and bread saw) are pasta. A grater is also essential, whether you’re times are becoming a thing of the past, essential. They are expensive but will last a preparing carrots for sandwiches or grating a replaced by more subtle Chardonnays. This lifetime. Look for ones that have a good bal- little nutmeg for a special dish. Be sure to buy wine is one of the new breed. Fresh ance and a comfortable handle as not only are a high-quality steel grater (avoid the cheaper flavours of fruit and citrus make this a they more satisfying to use but they are safer imitations which are prone to rusting and do refreshing, subtle, though not terribly com- too. A peeler is also essential. Look for one that not function so well) and keep in mind that plex drop. Avoid excessive chilling as it kills the flavour and aroma. Serve with Obesity crisis to impact on today's children mildly flavoured grilled fish. Cost: under $15 By Tim Dornin an issue of individual behaviour. "This is how our societies have changed, The world is facing an obesity crisis and the how our environments have changed and the generation of children born today may be the kind of pressures we are under," she said. first to be sicker and die younger than their "If you want to put it simplistically at this Christian Dior, Gucci, Calvin Klein parents, Adelaide's latest thinker in residence point in history we have more energy going says. into our bodies and less energy expended by Katerina + Kyriacos Mavrolefteros Professor Ilona Kickbusch, an independent ourselves. Dean Psarakis & Mary Krithinakis health consultant who previously worked "We go everywhere in cars, our work is with the World Health Organisation (WHO), sedentary a lot of our leisure activities are said the problems associated with rising obe- sedentary. OPTOMETRISTS sity levels, particularly with the young, were "In schools a lot of physical activity has been on a par with issues facing the environment. reduced in favour of certain academic princi- "We've got to envisage that for 150 years we ples. have constantly been improving not only the "So what we're seeing here is an epidemic life expectancy of populations but increasing which is an epidemic of our times. their health expectancy," she said. "If reflects how our societies are organised." "So people not only live longer, they're Prof Kickbusch said of most importance in 874 Anzac Parade, Maroubra Junction healthy for longer. the rising tide of obesity was the change, not (at bus stop, on RTA block) "With the onset of childhood obesity we're only in the amount of food people ate but the endangering that historical progress." types of food they consumed with energy TEL: (02) 9314-0393 Prof Kickbusch said according to latest dense food taking up a much greater propor- WHO figures there were now more than one tion of an average diet. [email protected] billion people in the world who would be Purchasing patterns had also changed, with considered overweight and 300 million of the growth of fast food outlets a clear exam- We have over 1,200 spectacle frames those were obese. ple of that. 114624 In Australia, 20 per cent of children were "What is particularly important in relation to and sunglasses on display! Silhouette, Adidas, Carrera overweight or obese. children is the marketing of food and the easy But she said childhood obesity was not just access of unhealthy food," she said.

Serengeti, Dolce & Gabbana, YSL Polo Ralph Lauren, Oakley, La font MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 22/50 HELP RADIOMARATHON HELP CHILDREN WITH JUVENILE New gadget promises IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS! to enhance tourist What is Arthritis? How is Juvenile Idiopathic

Arthritis literally means joint in ammation. It refers to Arthritis treated? a group of over 200 diseases that can cause pain, experience in Greece As we don’t know why Arthritis develops, there is stiffness and swelling in the joints. no cure. However with effective treatment disease progression can be controlled with the young person An in amed joint may be red, swollen, stiff, warm If you have ever wandered around a dusty and their family learning to manage the effects of to touch and very painful. These symptoms do not Arthritis. Each person’s treatment varies depending Greek archaeological site in midsummer, always occur together. Arthritis is a chronic physical on age and severity of disease. condition. (Meaning long lasting) clueless about what you are seeing or where you are going, help is finally at hand. The aim of any Arthritis treatment is to control or Arthritis can affect anyone at any age and most serious relieve the amount of pain experienced, reduce Greece's culture ministry on March 8 forms are often found in children. At least 1 in 1000 the in ammation in the joints maintain or improve young people develops JIA. Unfortunately it is not unveiled a hand-held gadget for visitors that the range of joint movement and function, maintain possible to determine the course of each individual’s offers high-resolution video, detailed dia- muscle strength allow normal physical and emotion- arthritis and it is vital that a young person with JIA al growth and development and help the child to live grams of sites such as ancient temples, posi- follows their recommended treatment program. as normally as possible. tion indicators, and imagery along with stereo Arthritis in children can occur any time, but more sound. commonly rst occurs between the ages of 1 to 4 The battery-powered, touchscreen devices and between 10 and 13 years. The cause of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is unknown. are about the size and weight of a personal stereo - weighing just 270 grams, or 9.5 ounces. Instructions come in four languages - The George Kranitis Juvenile Arthritis Greek, English, German and French. The units will be available at 15 sites around Fund-raising Dinner the country including the Acropolis and The George Kranitis Juvenile Arthritis Fund-raising dinner is being organized by National Archaeological Museum in Athens, George’s mum Mary, with the assistance of Radiomarathon. Our aim is to raise at Thessaloniki's archaeological and Byzantine least $25,000 to aid in the research towards nding a cure for Juvenile Arthritis. museums, Delphi, Rhodes, Olympia, You too can show your support by attending the Juvenile Arthritis Fundraiser for Mycenae, Vergina, Epidaurus and Knossos in A PDA is loaded with software that provides just $100 per person. All funds will go to Arthritis NSW to help nd a cure. Crete. information on ancient Greek sites Date: Friday 20th April 2007 "We are offering visitors one of the most ticketing systems for 18 major tourist sites, Venue: Doltone House, 223 Belgrave Esplanade, Sylvania Waters technologically advanced tourist guides in which will cut down on waiting time for visi- Time: 6:45pm for 7:00 start Europe," Culture Minister George Voulgarakis Dress: Evening said at a news conference. tors. The cost for assembling and programming Greece is expected to draw more than 15 5,000 units came to 9.5m euros. million tourists this year - more than its total If you cannot attend the dinner, you can make a Credit Card donation by calling 02 8262 9111 , The system, developed by Siemens and population of around 11 million - but its famed visit any Laiki Bank branch to make a donation in person, or make a direct deposit into the cultural sites have until now been slow to following account: Fujitsu, will first be tested in Thessaloniki and Mycenae and should be available at all sites by introduce technological support for visitors, Account Name: George Kranitis Juvenile Arthritis Fundraiser (Radiomarathon) summer 2008. Rental prices are yet to be such as the audio guides frequently used at BSB: 942 -202 Account Number 489 120 determined, Voulgarakis said. museums abroad. For more information call Mary on 0400 826 449 The ministry also unveiled new automated (AP) MARCH 2007 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 23/51

Greek Easter Holy Week

By Gary Van Haas and enactment of events leading up to the strengthened. His disciples and Apostles have healing powers. Thursdays usually finds death and resurrection of Christ. miraculously witnessed the appearance of the the household up and about very early deco- The solemnity of Holy Week in the Greek risen Christ, and from that became recipients rating the churches as priests read bible pas- Orthodox Church ends with the commence- In Greek Orthodoxy, people believe Christians of the Holy Spirit. From this momentous sages from the Last Supper. Later, the taking ment of Easter celebrations, where it glorifies must always be well-trained to fight against event, the Apostles became the ambassadors of communion begins in which all the faithful the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Greek reli- those who try to corrupt Godís spirit. of the new message of salvation in the name of participate. In the evening services, the priest gion, every Sunday is dedicated to the Resur- The Christian must keep his own spiritual Christ, ëthe Saviorí. Nowadays, Christians are recites passages from the twelve gospels, rection of the Lord, but one hundred days also kingdom intact and his freedom of religion also called to commemorate the same divine describing the Passion of Christ. On Good Fri- are dedicated to Easter, 50 before its actual and uprightness vivid in order to be a part of events and to enact them in their hearts and day, most shops and businesses are closed and preparation, and another 50 after it in com- the Kingdom of God, where the compassionís minds in realization that ëChrist is Risení. flags are flown at half-mast in commemora- memorating the glorification of the Lord. East- of the Lord and Resurrection will be experi- This is also one of the reasons why the Church tion of Christ being taken down from the er is therefore considered, the ìFeast of enced. In this belief, there is no other place from the very beginning set forth as the center cross. Feastsî. where the Kingdom of God can be expanded of its worship, the faith and Resurrection of On Friday evening, the bier of Christ is deco- except the heart of man; and there is no other Christ . From the earliest days after Pentecost, rated with gold cloth and fresh flowers, where The 50 days before Easter, known as a part of gate whereby we can enter the Kingdom but the Apostles designated the first of the Sabbath the faithful bow and stoop to kiss the symbol- the period of ëTriodioní, are the period for that of repentance. of each week for the remembrance of the Res- ic body of Christ. After this, the bier is carried strengthening faith in the Lord. urrection of Christ. out of the church and paraded through the The 50 days which follow Easter are signified streets in a lengthy funeral procession. This is a period of repentance, which changes by the Pentecostarion, which are dedicated to COMINGHoly Week itself, begins after SOONëPalm Sundayí Finally on Holy Saturday, the ceremonies people from indifference to full devotion and the spiritual enjoyment of the participants in and runs from Monday, where fasting and come to a close as people begin to break their prayer, which is considered the soul of faith, the deep belief that God is with all men in observance lead up to the so-called, ëPassioní. fasts, savoring specially prepared dishes like which governs relationships with fellowman. everyday life and thoughts. It starts with the THROUGHThe Tuesday following it is usually devoted ST to ëmargeiritsaí ANDREW’S soup, made of lambs innards. With this special preparation, Greeks enter the celebration of the Jesusí Resurrection. scripture reading and Wednesday is devoted to The rest of the day is spent preparing for next sanctuary of Holy Week, not as spectators, but During this period, the Church of Christ ORTHODOXthe anointing the faithful with holy oil or a PRESSspig dayís big lamb feast at the Easter Sunday cel- as actual participants in the commemoration (Christís mystical body) was instituted and of oregano. These sprigs are later thought to ebrations. Palm Sunday to Pascha:  Easter in Greece Orthodox Customs The christian symbolism of Easter was first underlined by ers and perfumes on the epitaphios (bier), holding lighted the Apostle Paul. When the Christians began to celebrate candles in their hands. Holy Tradition encompasses the Easter, they retained some of the features of the Jewish On Holy Saturday evening, the Resurrection mass takes beliefs of the Orthodox Church In the Greek tradition, on the Passover, while at the same time adding others. This can be place. At midnight the ceremony of lighting of candles is which are set forth in Holy other hand, the Paschal light is seen from the paschal lamb and the red eggs. the most significant moment of the year. People, carefully, Scripture, the writings of the taken home instead. After the In Byzantine times, it was the custom to bake ring-breads take home their lighted candles with the holly light of the Fathers, the liturgy of the Resurrection service, the faithful with a red egg in the middle. The egg, is a symbol of life, Resurrection. Before entering their houses they make a Church, and through oral trans- do not blow out the candles, but while red is the color of life. The dyeing of eggs for reli- cross with the smoke of the candle on top of the door, they mission through the ages. An hold them during the entire gious purposes is a practice, which is encountered in many light the oil candle before their icon-stand, and try to keep example of Holy Tradition is that Paschal Divine Liturgy. Every parts of the world. Before Easter, there is a 50 day fasting this light burning throughout the year. Joachim and Anna are the par- time the Troparion ìChrist is period.Easter begins on the Saturday of Lazarus (the Sat- The Lenten fast ends on Easter Sunday with the cracking ents of Mary the Theotokos. Risen..î is sung or the celebrant urday before Palm Sunday) with children going from door of red-dyed eggs and an outdoor feast of roast lamb fol- Their names do not appear in the exclaims ìChrist is risen!î to door singing the hymn of ìLazarosî and collecting lowed by dancing. Bible, but have been handed everyone in the congregation money and eggs. On the morning of Palm Sun- down to us since the beginnings lifts his candle high as the choir day people gather in church and are given a cross of Church history. sings or responds with ìIndeed, made from palm fronds, which they put on their Sydney Festival the most He is risen!î After the service, icon-stands at home and keep it for the whole of Orthodox traditions are defined the faithful take the fire home to the coming year. Every evening throughout Holy popular city event as pious customs - they are light the lampadas in front of Week, people gather in church to follow with things that we do, not things that their icons. At mealtimes, the devoutness the Passion of Christ. The Sydney Festival has we believe. There are many candle is lit as the family sings been voted the city’s examples of pious traditions in ìChrist is risen..î On Holy Tuesday, housewives make sweet rolls favourite event in a poll con- the week from Palm Sunday the koulourakia and the following day they do ducted by the Sydney through Pascha, the feast of the The red egg that the celebrants the housework, while in the evening they follow Chamber of Commerce. Resurrection. presents to the faithful at the end the blessing of Holy Oil that takes place in A survey of 385 people An Arabic tradition is to hold of the Paschal Divine Liturgy is church. Holy Thursday is the day for dyeing egg. taken in the Sydney CBD in candles decorated with flowers also a tradition. The egg repre- In the evening, after the reading of the 12 February reveals that for Palm Sunday along with sents Christ in the tomb. Break- Gospel, the girls undertake the decoration of the Sydney-siders prefer the palm branches. Greeks hold ing the egg is symbolic of the bier of Christ (epitaphios) with garlands of white popular cultural festival to, crosses woven from either palm Resurrection. and purple flowers, so that in the morning of New Year’s Eve and the branches or bay leaves on Palm Good Friday it is ready to receive the image of Royal Easter Show, execu- Sunday. Slavic peoples receive Slavic people and by some the body of Christ when He is taken down from tive director of the Sydney pussy willow branches on Palm Greek families observe the tradi- the cross. Chamber of Commerce Sunday. These are adaptations tion of bringing a basket of food Good Friday is a day of mourning. The drama of Patricia Forsythe said.”With a total attendance of about one million people, Sydney Festival has become our premier annual event,” Ms due to climate in the country of to be blessed after the Paschal the death of Christ is followed with great devout- Forsythe said. origin of these people. Divine Liturgy. The basket usu- ness. Sweet things are not eaten-for the love of About 45 per cent of respondents said the festival was their ally contains bread (made with Christ, who was given vinegar to drink. Soup favourite event, followed by New Year’s Eve, which appealed to 23 Greeks greet each other with eggs and milk), cheese, meat, made with sesame-paste, lettuce or lentils with per cent of those surveyed. ìKali Anastasiî or ìGood Resur- eggs, butter, salt, and other foods vinegar is the food eaten on this day. It is consid- When it comes to leisure time, residents of Australia’s largest city rectionî on Great and Holy Fri- that the family plans on having ered a great sin to work with a hammer or nails say going to the beach and dining at a restaurant are preferable to day. for their Paschal celebration. or sew on Good Friday. playing sport. In the Russian tradition, the There should also be a lit candle, Vesper evening on Good Friday, is followed by “It seems that Sydneysiders are much more enthused about faithful carry home the ìThurs- symbolizing the Light of Christ. the procession of the bier (representing Christís watching sport than playing it,” Ms Forsythe said. day Fireî - the candles that we funeral). A band or choir playing or singing More than a third of city dwellers chose to watch tennis and just 20 hold during the reading of the 12 All of these traditions and cus- solemn music precedes the procession; they are per cent of respondents enjoyed sitting in front of the cricket. Passion Gospels on Holy Thurs- toms are good ó as long as they followed by the cantors, the clergy, women bear- The Museum of Contemporary Art was rated the city’s favourite day night. The flame is used to do not reeplace in our heart the ing myrrh, the altar boys carrying the liturgical museum or gallery and the Pitt St and George St shopping areas in light the lampada in the familyís memory of Christ Himself who fans, scouts and guides, and the people of the the city were rated the best places to shop, with almost half of the Icon Corner where it remains died for us and has risen for our region, who sing the hymns throughout the pro- respondents choosing the city over their local shopping centre. burning for the whole year. salvation. cession. All along its route, people scatter flow- AAP Peter’s of Kensington wishes you a Happy Easter

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