THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece DECEMBER 2016 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] OUR ARCHBISHOP’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2016 PAGES 5/33

Miracle Worker

Eleni Georgiou outsmarted a kidnapper and overcame a ki ller disease to take over her family’s iconic Newcastle business. PAGES 14/42 - 15/43

6th EPISCOPAL Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ ASSEMBLY OF OCEANIA

The Feast of the Nativity of Jesus is one of The members of the 6th Episcopal Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of Oceania welcomed the opportunity the most joyful days of the Orthodox Church. to meet in Sydney on Thursday 8th December, 2016, under the chairmanship ex officio of His Eminence Archbishop It ranks next to the greatest holiday, the Res- Stylianos of Australia. urrection of Jesus. The Feast of the Birth of Present were: His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos (Ecumenical Patriarchate); His Eminence Archbishop Paul (Anti- Jesus is also known a s the “Inc arnation of ochian Church); His Grace Bishop George (Russian Church); His Grace Bishop Siluan (Serbian Church); His Grace Bish- Christ.” This means that Jesus became a man op Mihail (Romanian Church); His Eminence Metropolitan Amphilochios (Ecumenical Patriarchate); His Grace Bishop and came into the world to save us. We also Ezekiel (Assistant Bishop); His Grace Bishop Seraphim (Assistant Bishop); His Grace Bishop Nikandros (Assistant Bish- refer to this joyous feast as Christmas. op) and His Grace Bishop Iakovos (Assistant Bishop). PAGES 18/46 - 19/47 The Announcement with decisions rendered at the Assembly, will be published in January’s issue. To our readers we extend our sincere good wishes for a Merry Christmas and Arcadia

The heart of the P eloponnese retains a a Happy New Year genuine rustic feel amid tr aditional villages and fir forests. 2017 PAGE 24/52 DECEMBER 2016 2/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

40th Nameday Celebrations for our Primate Archbishop Stylianos held in Sydney

Left: The official table. Centre: Professor Socrates Dokos during his speech. Right: His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos during his response More than 400 representatives of Parishes and THE PROFESSOR’S ADDRESS every strength in the continuation of your Godly Communities, Institutions, Associations and Brother- work. From all your children who know and admire hoods honoured the 40th Nameday anniversary Re- “Your Eminence, Your Grace, reverend Fathers, dis- you, we are immensely proud to have you as our hi- ception for the Primate of the Greek Orthodox tinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, erarch, and unreservedly proclaim, well done indeed, Church in Australia, His Eminence Archbishop Stylia- Your Eminence, you once said in an interview: “The Your Eminence!” nos, held at the ‘Palais Function Centre’ on Sunday world at large eulogises exceptional men and wo- THE RESPONSE 27th November, 2016. men, sometimes out of self-conceit. But in the All proceeds from this function each year go to- Church you are speaking of “the mystery of deifica- In his response, the Archbishop stressed that the wards St Andrew’s Theological College which has al- tion”, and you present a witness to what the grace of most important purpose of the evening was to recall ready yielded priests, teachers and theologians who God has been able to achieve”. Allow us then, Your the righteousness and unwavering faith of Saint are working in specialist areas of pastoral, social, ed- Eminence, to give our own humble witness of God’s Stylianos whose life, as the celebrating Archbishop of ucational and other ministries. grace and presence in this continent, which we at- Australia, he has striven to emulate. THE OFFICIAL GUESTS tribute to your enlightened leadership at the helm of St Stylianos was from Paphlagonia in Cappadocia, our Church for 41 years. An indeed miraculous period Asia Minor, living in the latter 6th century and early Besides the celebrating Primate of our Greek Or- of unprecedented growth throughout all of Australia 7th century. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ with his thodox Church in Australia, the official party was in the founding of new churches, monasteries, St An- whole heart and lived in strict asceticism. His prayers comprised of His Grace, Bishop Seraphim of Apollo- drew’s Theological College, the ordination of many have worked many miracles, both during his earthly nia, Assistant Bishop to His Eminence in Sydney, the clergy, establishment of Orthodox primary and sec- life and since. He is of special help to children who Consul General for Greece in Sydney, Dr Stavros ondary Schools, Nursing Homes, Clergy-Laity Confer- are ill and to childless couples. He is known as a pro- Kyrimis, Mr Michael Diamond, Legal Adviser to the ences, National Youth Conferences, Greek Welfare tector of orphans. Archdiocese and Vice-President of the Archdiocesan Centres, the ‘Vema’ of the church newspaper, St An- His Eminence expounded on the various aspects of Council, Mr Peter Theofilou, President of the Inter- drew’s Press for the publication of Orthodox books, the Saint’s Apolytikion hymn: Communities Council of NSW and President of the and many, many other praiseworthy achievements “Holy Stylianos, you were a tower of abstinence Parish and Community of St Euphemia Bankstown, directly through your inspired leadership and guid- and an unshaken pillar of the Church. Dedicated to Mr Harry Danalis, President of the Greek Community ance, achievements few hierarchs worldwide have God from your youth, you became a dwelling-place of Sydney and NSW, and Mrs Alexandra Danalis, Pro- matched. of the Spirit. O righteous F ather, intercede with fessor Socrates Dokos and Mrs Anna Dokos, Dr Spy- Yet beyond all of these successes, Your Eminence, Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.” ros Miyiakis, Associate Professor of Medicine and Di- what we remember most about you is your formida- His Eminence thanked Professor Dokos for his kind rector of the Department of Infectious Diseases at ble wisdom in Christ and learning, your powerful ser- and sensitive address and expressed the view that Wollongong Hospital, F ather Steven Scoutas, MC, mons and written treatises, as well as your enormous love often ‘exaggerates’ when it is directed in a and his Presvitera Patricia. empathy, sensitivity and approachability. When ask- speech such as this at someone who is loved. THE SPEAKER FOR THE EVENING ing my children what they thought about you, they The celebrating Archbishop also offered his pro- spontaneously responded: “He is not just an adminis- found gratitude to all present for their personal con- This year’s speaker was Professor Socrates Dokos trator running the Church, he truly cares about us”! tribution to the daily life of the Church, for their re- of the Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, You once said in an interview that “belief in God, for spect and love towards His humble self and for their University of New South Wales,where his area of re- me, is more than oxygen”, and this is evident in all sensitivity to their fellow-human. search lies in electrical stimulation of heart, brain and that you do, say, and write. For us, your spiritual chil- VOTE OF THANKS retinal tissues for implantable medical devices. He re- dren, you were the good shepherd “who lays down searches and teaches mainly in the area of computa- his life for his flock”. Warm thanks were expressed to the Organizing tional simulations of bioelectric phenomena, and has On behalf of an entire generation of Greek Aus- Committee which worked, as always, under the di- published over 150 journal articles, book chapters tralians who were born and raised in this country, rection of His Grace Bishop Seraphim, as well as to and conference proceedings in this field. He is also a who had the blessing and honour of knowing you as the proprietor of the ‘Palais Function Centre’, Mr graduate of St Andrew’s Theological College (Masters their only hierarch for the past four decades, we and Michael Onoufriades, and to his wife Litsa, for their of Arts in Theology, 2011), and has been a member of our children, and our children’s children, owe you an delightful service. the Greek Orthodox Christian Society for over 30 immeasurable debt for everything you have given The evening closed with clergy and laity chanting years. In his younger days, he also taught Sunday our Church and community. Your presence among us the Pheme of our Archbishop. School and Youth F ellowships (Ομάδες), and is the is a testament that God has not forgotten his people The VEMA of the Church also takes this opportuni- current editor of the periodical ‘L ychnos’. He is mar- in this far-flung continent. Please accept our grati- ty to wish His Eminence continuing health and ried to Anna (nee Stavropoulos) and they have 6 chil- tude and righteous praise “from the mouths of suck- strength on the occasion of His recent Nameday. dren. ling babes”. We wish you many more years, and FSS DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/31 Opinion The border and the eight Turkish asylum seekers

By Nikos Konstandaras - Kathimerini, Athens

The border between Greece and Turkey separates two very different countries. And yet it is not fixed – it is porous, sometimes in motion and dangerous. Just as the Evros River changes course and the borderline, so the fates of people are determined by which side they find themselves on. The case of the eight Turkish military officers who requested asylum in Greece un- derlines many aspects of the difficult relationship be- tween the two countries. We may be plagued by our country’s many weak- nesses, but Greece is a democracy. Despite the fact that Turkey’s president and government were elect- ed, the country is moving quickly away from the prin- ciples of democracy. The “godsend” of the attempted coup of July 15, as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described it, trig- gered merciless persecution of any group or person who does not appear to be on the president’s side, in- cluding news media and journalists, judges, profes- sors, teachers, police, military officers, K urds and civil servants. This, combined with the threat of the return of the death sentence, means that there are no guar- antees for the rights of those who are prosecuted, de- tained and judged in Turkey. This is what the Greek judges took into account this week when they ruled grants again. For Greece, though, it is a matter of prin- still fresh. This makes it imperative that the eight en- that five of the eight Turkish asylum seekers should ciple to allow justice to do its work without heeding joy their full rights in Greece. Institutions exist to pro- not be extradited. The same appeals court council, any pressure. We do not know the extent of the eight tect everyone, without exception. If Turkish suspected with different judges, decided that another three officers’ involvement in the attempted coup but we coup plotters are deprived of their rights in Greece, should be sent back to Turkey, prompting questions as do know that their extradition would contribute to a then Greek citizens, too, cannot feel safe. Human to the reasons for this division. The Supreme Court, violation of their human rights. In Turkey they would rights are universal and Greece has a duty to uphold and, if necessary, the justice minister, will have the fi- be in danger of being tortured, being tried unfairly, re- them. nal say. ceiving heavy sentences, perhaps even the death sen- Greece is strengthened when it defends human Turkey keeps raising the pressure on Greece, ques- tence. In Greece we have no liking for coup plotters. rights and the principles of democracy and humanism tioning the Treaty of Lausanne that established the Our government was one of the first voices to support against every threat, at any cost. True borders are not common border, raising claims to islets in the Aegean, the Turkish government on July 15. The memories and defined by rivers or lines on maps, but by the level of threatening to allow the flow of refugees and mi- wounds of the last Greek dictatorship in 1967-74 are devotion to justice and the inalienable right to life. SOPHIE COTSIS TOY DRIVE HELPING VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND THEIR CHILDREN

Sophie Cotsis MP, Member for Canterbury and Shad- ow Minister for Women announced that her Electorate Office in Campsie will begin an Annual Toy Drive to sup- port women and their children escaping domestic vio- lence, homelessness and other hardships. All toys donated will be forwarded to Linking Hearts Multicultural Family Services and their partner organi- sation Sydney Women’s Counselling Centre. Members of the public are invited to bring their kind donation to Suite 201, 308-312 Beamish Street, Camp- sie Monday to Friday during business hours. “Linking Hearts Multicultural family support service provides our community with vital services which reach out to women who are disadvantaged and going through very difficult circumstances” Ms Cotsis said. “The toys will be appreciated by the children and due to the emotional and financial hardship these families go through, this generosity no matter how small or big will make a difference to them this Christmas.” said F e- da Rifai, Manager of Linking Hearts Multicultural Family Services. “Linking Hearts is a new innovative program that builds on strong interagency relationships to provide holistic and culturally sensitive support options for those at greatest risk of homelessness” Ms Rifai said. Linking Hearts Multicultural family support service is Counselling Centre said “the Centre acts as a safe space will provide much needed relief.” a project of the Muslim Women’s Association support- for women currently escaping Domestic Violence and “It’s important during the Holiday season to remem- ing culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women provides comprehensive support for prevention, early ber not everyone in our community will spend Christ- and families regardless of religion or cultural back- intervention, crisis, and post-crisis support” said mas at home. Toy donations from the local community ground. “These women and children are escaping unimagin- for this important cause is greatly appreciated.” Ms Cot- Margherita Basile, Manager of the Sydney Women’s able situations and the generosity of our community sis said. DECEMBER 2016 -4/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

American School of Classical Studies investigating deviant burials at Faliro In sociology, deviant behavior can be ei- ther malum in se, meaning wrong in itself, or malum prohibita, wrong because it is prohibited. The term deviant is also used to define the mystery of an ancient necropolis unearthed at the Phaleron (present-day Faliro) Delta, where classical archaeology has called on the help of CSI- style archaeologists from the Malcolm H. Wiener Laboratory for Archaeological Sci- German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier speaks during a press conference ence at the American School of Classical for the opening at the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art. Studies in A thens (ASCSA) to examine groups of deviant graves, known by the Thessaloniki exhibition scientists as the D graves, and mass buri- als of minors. “This is our biggest and most important this spot was picked in the first place and turns spotlight project,” says laboratory director and why it was later abandoned,” says K arka- geoarchaeologist Dr Panagiotis K arkanas nas. on dark chapter of 1940-50s as he shows us around the new facilities “Once we understand the environmen- created thanks to a donation by philhel- tal changes, the archaeologists will be The Macedonian Museum of Con- particularly against the city’s Jewish lene Malcolm H. Wiener. better able to date the graves, as some of temporary Art (MMST) presents a new community – followed by civil war. In The two-story building, inaugurated a them do not contain any funerary gifts. exhibition that turns the spotlight on all the darkness, however, there are few months ago, is equipped with seven The soil contains many small fossils that one of the most savage chapters in also rays of light from the artists and state-of-the-art labs that augment the are indicative of the deposits in the area, modern human history with “Frac- intellectuals who fought the forces of work of the applied archaeological scien- yielding small pieces of trash that tell us tured Memories 1940-1950,” organ- brutality with whatever means they ces, such as bioarchaeology, zooarchaeol- what the people there were doing. ized by the Goethe Institute in cooper- had at their disposal. ogy, geoarchaeology, paleobotany etc. “I believe that there is huge potential ation with the Jewish Museum of An important part of the exhibition “We basically study the things that can- for us to understand the people of that Thessaloniki and the Deutsches His- consists of evidence and documenta- not be seen with the naked eye,” explains turbulent time in the history of ancient torisches Museum in Berlin. It was in- tion that is being shown to the gener- Karkanas. Athens. History is normally written by and augurated on Sunday by Greek F or- al public for the first time by the Jew- In the lab’s basement, we see a re- for the elites and we have relatively few eign Minister Nikos K otzias and his ish Museum of Thessaloniki. This part searcher examining a mark on what looks archival sources for the Archaic period German counterpart Frank-Walter of the show has been curated by Evan- to the layman like a regular rock. compared with the subsequent years of Steinmeier. gelos Hekimoglou. The timeline starts “She is looking at traces on a stone tool, ancient Athens. The other big cemetery, An undiminished interest in this his- in the 1930s and ends with the final at the way its edge has been eroded to in Kerameikos, was excavated a decade torical period, new evidence and testi- days of the Nazi occupation. It sheds determine how the rock was used, for ex- ago and revealed ornate graves that we monies that keep coming to light, as light on the role of collaborators, on ample to treat animal skins, to cut meat did not see in F aliro,” explains distin- well as the fact that artists continue to the dismantling of the Jewish ceme- or wood, or something else,” says the lab guished American archaeologist and pro- pose questions about barbarity, life tery, the road to the death camps, the director. fessor Jane Buikstra, who is credited with and death, constantly demand fresh looting of properties, and evidence of Like other finds, the ancient tool will creating the field of bioarchaeology. interpretations of events that have how Jews were stricken off public next be examined under powerful micro- Buikstra is working with the Wiener still not been fully analyzed. records or fired from the civil service scopes for signs of surface damage, while Laboratory in an effort to answer ques- At the MMST, paintings, drawing, for being “absent without permission” the chemical composition of organic finds tions regarding the lifespan of the people photographs, sculptures, posters, sati- when they were rounded up in ghet- is analyzed with electronic x-ray micro- in Archaic times, their geographical prove- rical cartoons, videos and diaries pres- tos. scopes. The scientists will closely examine nance, their overall state of health and di- ent different narrative approaches to The selection of art and archival ma- plant imprints as well as soil samples that et, and what connection there may be be- and interpretations of that period, terial from private and public archives can reveal important information about tween the two. starting with the events themselves: does not just tell the story of that peri- the natural environment in ancient times. The scientists will also, for example, be foreign occupation, resistance, geno- od and of the output of creative forces “In regard to F aliro, we will also study able to trace the DNA of pathogens to de- cide, famine and other brutalities at that time, it is also a protest against the temporal changes in the environment termine whether the deaths of the minors committed by the occupying forces – the horrors of war. of the necropolis so that we can learn why were due to a deadly contagious disease. Greek sushi master among world’s 100 best chefs

Greek sushi master Antonis Drakoularakos, owner of Athens restaurant Sushimou, was named among the world’s 100 top chefs at the award ceremony of the first Chefs World Summit earlier this month. Organized by the prestigious French magazine Le Chef from November 27-29 at the Grimaldi F orum in Monaco, the event included a stellar lineup of more than 500 two- and three-Michelin-starred chefs from around the world and other influential industry play- ers. The 37-year-old physicist-turned-chef came in last on the list that places him among the ranks of the leg- endary Alain Passard (first place) of L ’Arpege in Paris and Martin Berasategui (second place) of the epony- mous eatery in Lasarte Oria, Spain. Drakoularakos trained in the demanding art of sushi making at the Tokyo Sushi Academy in 2014, returning to Athens to open Sushimou, located just off Syntagma Square, in November last year. In the year since it opened, the small, 12-seat sushi bar has attracted the attention of local critics and discerning diners alike. DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/33 Our Primate’s View CHRISTMAS MESSAGE 2016

since it is destined for ev eryone, for all hu‑ + S T Y L I A N O S manity, it is a joy “for all people”. By the grace of God Joys which are not for ev eryone, are Archbishop of Australia small joys; they are joys which are depressing, to all the Reverend Clergy and devout faithful of our holy Archdiocese. joys which are sinful. People seek for themselv es and for Brother concelebrants and belov ed “their own” such small joys, which divide children in Christ, and separate people. God, how ever, bestows “Do not be afraid; for joys which unite and build up, because they behold—I am bringing you are joys directed “for all the people”. And above good news of great joy for all all these joys, there is the great joy of the In‑ the people” (Luke 2:10). carnation of the Only‑begotten Son of God.

With these w ords, the angel tried to It is this unprecedented and incompa‑ console the fear of the shepherds who were in rable joy which expels the fears of the night the field on that night of the unprecedented and of death. By ARCHBISHOP Theogony, according to which God, who , in This joy unites the earth with the heav‑ STYLIANOS all things is uncontainable, humbled himself OF AUSTRALIA ens, and this is the only joy which restores re‑ into the narrow limits of the human person so lations and reconciles people amongst them‑ that He might guide us tow ards the bound‑ selves. less glory of God. It is this angelic message which we also These words are altogether timely for have to repeat once again this y ear to our ‑ today as well. selves and to others. What however is the anthropological “Do not be afraid; for behold—I am bring‑ and salvific content of the words of the angel? ing you good news of great joy for all the people”. What is the significance of this decisiv e night which separates the world from heaven? May this message, therefore, illumi‑ nate our troubled life. Unequivocally, it is the w ords of the angel: “Do not be afraid; for behold—I am bring‑ To God the Word who became Human ing you good news of great joy for all the people”. for us all, be glory, honour and worship to the ages of ages. Amen. I have to announce, it says, a great joy which is not common; a joy which does not With fervent prayers to God end.

It is the joy, that God lowered the heav‑ ens and is now with us. And He will remain with us always as the Emmanuel which means “God is with us”.

This joy is great and indestructible, CHRISTMAS 2016

GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AUSTRALIA Visit our webpage wwwwww..greekorthodoxgreekorthodox..orgorg..auau DECEMBER 2016 6/34 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

tralians. Christians, on the other hand, need to be fa- miliar with the world around them. By and large, they Letter need to be alert and up-to-date. Of course, there are some exceptions because of special situations. It is vital to read about one’s faith and one’s beliefs but also to be self-educated about the world. It could from include science, history, geography, finance, arts, mu- sic and so forth. We cannot exist in a self-satisfied vacuum. To be well informed one needs to listen, to see but Maroubra above all to read. Reading is something that we can do by ourselves and for ourselves. It gives us the chance to reflect. It opens the mind. It can change our e live in an age of communication with an pattern of thinking. Wabundance of information. We have compul- But above all, we need to be educated about our sory schooling and most Australians can read faith. It needs to be reinforced. It needs to be fed. Not and write – some better than others. But we do not all religious books are appropriate for this and every- use this gift of reading wisely. one has different tastes or needs but there is a vast Some have not read a book since leaving school. choice to satisfy everyone’s interests. They might glance at a weekend paper or read a ma- My experience is that most true Christians are read- gazine or watch a news telecast but that is about all. ers. Within the limit of their abilities and their cir- As a result, some people live their lives blissfully un- cumstances they are open to new ideas. They tend to aware of the world around them. read, especially when compared to the general popu- This has resulted in widespread ignorance. In one of lation. my studies, around 9 per cent of some 700 adults in We are blessed that in Australia today, Greek Or- Australian did not know the name of the Prime Minis- thodox Christians have ready access to books about ter or even the President of the United States. their faith. It was not always like this. We should be It is not that the topic of politics should be of inter- grateful to those who pioneered the introduction of est to them. What it means is that as an ordinary Aus- spiritual books to this country. It would be a pity if we tralian, they are hardly aware of the world around missed an opportunity to educate ourselves. them. They lack basic information about something To close, I recall the story of someone in World War that most people are exposed to or are expected to II during a time of famine. They were hungry but had know. enough money to buy some bread. When they went The question about the PM is not critical. It is just to the shop they saw a book they liked. It was a an indicator. This is a signal that other bits of infor- choice between the bread or some reading. They mation useful for our role as a citizen have not been chose the book and said later that it kept them com- absorbed. pany for many months whereas the bread would on- What are the causes of such lack of awareness? ly have satisfied their hunger temporarily. One might be a lack of interest but almost definitely How long has it been since you read a book? another major problem is that people do not read. May I wish you, your family and friends every bless- Just over a quarter of adults in the US say that they ing for Christmas and the New Year. have not read even part of a book in the last year. This includes books in audio or electronic form. I sus- pect that Australia is probably much the same. not read has actually increased slightly. About the The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of the VEMA or St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological Col- It turns out that these non-readers are widespread. same proportion have never been to a public library. lege.Source: Andrew Perrin, Who doesn’t read books in America? They include graduates, young people as well as old. Their minds have stagnated. What they know is Over the last five years the proportion who have considered enough. This is the case for many Aus- [email protected] Exercises that can save KZd,KKyD/^^/KEKK<^dKZ your life Ϯϭϳy>zZĚ͕ŽƌĚ͘ was compiled of analyzed data from over 80,300 people with an average age of 52. DŽŶĚĂLJϬϱͬϭϮͬϮϬϭϲƚŚƌŽƵŐŚƚŽ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJϮϰͬϭϮͬϮϬϭϲ The study showed that the danger of death from DŽŶĚĂLJʹ &ƌŝĚĂLJϵ͗ϬϬĂŵƚŽϴ͗ϬϬƉŵ health related causes decreased 47 percent in the ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJϭϬ͗ϬϬĂŵƚŽϯ͗ϬϬƉŵ group of individuals who engaged in playing tennis, squash or badminton and that tennis in particular re- WůĞĂƐĞĐĂůůϵϳϴϳϵϳϳϵĨŽƌĂůůĞŶƋƵŝƌŝĞƐ duces the chances of death from a cardiac disease by 56 percent. Those individuals who opt to swim can expect ZĞŵĞŵďĞƌLJŽƵĐĂŶĂůǁĂLJƐŽƌĚĞƌŽŶůŝŶĞĂƚ a 28 percent decrease in dying from health related causes, which is similar to what individuals who partici- ŚƚƚƉƐ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ŽƌƚŚŽĚŽdžŬƐƚŽƌĞ͘ŽƌŐ͘ĂƵͬ pate in aerobics can expect as the study showed a 46 percent decrease. tĞǁŝůůďĞĐůŽƐĞĚĨƌŽŵDŽŶĚĂLJϬϮͬϬϭͬϮϬϭϳĂŶĚƌĞƚƵƌŶƚŽƌĞŐƵůĂƌ Professor Stamatakis is a graduate from the Sports ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐŚŽƵƌƐĂƐŽĨDŽŶĚĂLJϭϲͬϬϭͬϮϬϭϳ Science School of the University of Thessaloniki, which he completed in 1995. In 2002 he attended Bristol Uni- ZĞŐƵůĂƌƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ,ŽƵƌƐ͗ versity where he completed his Ph.D , followed by DŽŶĚĂLJ ʹ &ƌŝĚĂLJ͗ϭϬ͗ϬϬĂŵƚŽϯ͗ϬϬƉŵ teaching at the Epidemiology and Public Health Depart- ment of London University College. In 2013 he became ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ͗ϭϬ͗ϬϬĂŵƚŽϭ͗ϬϬƉŵ a Professor at the University of Sydney, where he still teaches. DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/35

Visit by His Eminence to St John’s College, Melbourne

As a school of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, St John’s College Mel- nence inspected the latest addition to St Johns College, the Centre for Environment, bourne, led by the newly appointed Principal, Mr Lance Ryan was delighted by a re- Technology and Sustainability. Being shown the new laboratories, latest learning and cent visit from His Eminence, Archbishop Stylianos along with their Grace’s Bishop teaching tools and collaborative work spaces, Archbishop Stylianos expressed great Ezekiel of Dervis and Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis. With great excitement the stu- pleasure in seeing St John’s grow and flourish in the service of our children’s educa- dent choir welcomed the Archbishop with a variety of musical treats and in turn was tion, achievement and their contribution to the Australian community. treated to a heart-felt address by His Eminence in support of the great work of edu- St John’s College is greatly honored to have hosted His Eminence and Their Graces cation and the renewal occurring at all levels of the College. and is thankful for the confidence and continued prayers offered as it grows from Following a light refreshment and greeting students, staff and parents, His Emi- strength to strength.

wonderfulIt’s the most ঞl;o=|_;‹;-uĴ 8/36 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA DECEMBER 2016

Oakleigh Grammar welcomes Archbishop Stylianos On Tuesday 22 November Oakleigh Grammar had the honour and privilege of wel- Principal Mark Robertson spoke on behalf of the school community, welcoming His coming His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church of Eminence and highlighting the importance of Orthodox values and Hellenic culture Australia, for the first time in 15 years. which makes up the fabric of the school. He was accompanied by their Graces Bishop Ezekiel of Dervis and Bishop Iakovos of His Eminence expressed his great joy and satisfaction at the progress Oakleigh Miletoupolis. It was a significant and memorable occasion, etched in the hearts and Grammar has made, and encouraged the students to ‘be who they can be’ through minds of the school community. Official guests were greeted by the school drummers God’s Grace. He closed his address with a Cretan poem which states ‘although there and flag bearers, honouring His Eminence. Upon entering the church, they were em- is a distance between us our hearts are always fond of each other.’ braced by the hymnody of the Byzantine Choir. The assembly concluded with the singing of the National Anthem and the hymn of The President of the board of Oakleigh Grammar and the Greek Orthodox Commu- our patrons Saints Anargyri. nity of Oakleigh, Mr Angelo Sardellis, welcomed His Eminence expressing his great It was an honour for the students and staff to bear the wise words of Archbishop joy and heartfelt thanks for his prayers and support. Stylianos.

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GREEK ORTHODOX YOUTH FEATURE AT PARLIAMENT

On 15th November, Elena Angelides a representatives from all the major faiths, representative of the Greek Orthodox Also supporting the event was the Archdiocese was the recipient of a spe- Shadow Minister of Education, Mr Jihad cial award from the Minister for Educa- Dib, who said “Having the opportunity to tion. She was the first of 15 outstanding learn more about one’s own religion is Scripture teachers plus two school Princi- an important option for many students pals to receive an award. and their parents. The availability of SRE The Celebration took place before an in Public Schools contributes to our vi- audience of some 350, including 25 brant multicultural, multi-faith society. I Members of Parliament. The function commend the approved providers and was held in the Stranger’s Room of the many volunteers for their dedication and New South Wales Parliament overlook- commitment”. ing the Domain and the art Gallery. Mr Vic Alhadeff, spoke on behalf of In- Elena Angelides received her award ter-Church Commission on Religious Edu- from Adrian Piccoli, the Minister for Edu- cation in Schools. He said ‘SRE provides a cation. This was for her contribution to critical underpinning to the success of Scripture Teaching in New South Wales. our multicultural, multi-faith society, and She is the youngest Greek Orthodox the event was a great opportunity to Scripture Teacher and combines this recognise the contribution the major with her studies in Medical Science at faiths make to public education. It im- the University of New South Wales. bues students with understanding of Elena also has the privilege of being their faith and tradition, and in so doing able to teach at the same primary school gives them a basis from which to em- that she attended. Some of the teachers brace the world.’ remember her as a pupil and are pleased It is not recognised that Scripture is the to see her contributing to the school. that Scripture or Special Religious Educa- system. largest community education program in The Minister emphasised the influence tion (SRE) has for the Public Education “The NSW Government supports the New South Wales. It has been in exis- good work done by providers of Special tence since 1890 and to the surprise of Religious Education in our public schools. many people, it is regarded as one of the SRE is an important way in which chil- most popular subjects in the curriculum. dren can learn about the values that are A spokesperson for the Archdiocese at the heart of the world’s religions. I said that, the Greek Orthodox Church congratulate the award recipients for has made special efforts in recent years their enthusiasm and hard work,” Mr Pic- to update the curriculum and to train coli said. teachers. There is every reason to be- The celebration was a powerful repre- lieve in its continuation with young vol- sentation of unity in diversity. It included unteers, such as Elena Angelides.

Australia’s Hellenic Community Celebrated at the 2016 HACCI Excellence Awards

The winners of the 2016 HACCI Excellence Awards were announced at the HAC- CI Excellence Awards Gala Ball at the Grand Hyatt Savoy Ballroom on November 18. For the past 40 years, HACCI has focused on giving recognition to individuals who have demonstrated success in their own pursuits as well as acting as com- munity leaders. HACCI Chair Georgina Poulos tstated that “the contribution of the Hellenic Aus- tralian community has had a tremendous impact in shaping the fabric of the Aus- tralia we live in today.” The awards were handed out as follows: Gregory Gavrilides, Australia’s Greek community and one of the country’s most successful property developers won the Spiros Stamoulis Lifetime Achieve- ment Award Kathy Staples, former investment banker, cancer survivor, cookbook author and owner of the Sweet Greek won the Delphi Bank Business Excellence Award Con Mylonas, a former neurosurgeon, and current barrister and chairman of the Spinal Research Institute shared the Professional Excellence Award with Pro- fessor Dennis Velakoulis, Head of Neuropsychiatry at the Royal Melbourne Hos- pital and the Clinical Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Melbourne Fotini Karakitsos, a geologist, microbiologist, and researcher won the Chris Saristavros Young Achievers Award Helen Zahos, a community nurse who traveled to the Aegean island of Lesvos to help at the migrant hotspot won the Community Service Award Ange Postecoglou, Australia’s national football/soccer head coach won the Sporting Excellence Award, awarded by the South Melbourne Football Club. DECEMBER 2016 10/38 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

The Gift of Christmas

By Theo Nicolakis “Don’t you know that when you give someone a pres- It’s about presents. Christmas really is about pres- ent, there’s supposed to be something inside of it?” he ents; but it’s not about the presents we give that we The Christmas season is such a beautiful time of the shouted. With tears in her eyes, the little girl looked up bought at the local Toys – R – Us, or the local depart- year. Lights, candles, and cutout snowflakes begin to at him and said, “Daddy, it’s not empty. I blew kisses in- ment store. It’s not about the giving of money; Christ- decorate our city’s streets. People begin to adorn their to the box and put them in there for you.” Her father mas is not about a holiday season. homes with the colors of red and green, wreaths, can- then smiled, put his arms around his little girl, and Rather, Christmas is about the gift of giving of our- dles, and dazzling arrays of lights. These decorations begged her forgiveness and kept that gold box by his selves. Giving of our time and talents so that we might even spill into our schools and businesses. That’s the bed for years so that whenever he was discouraged he touch the life of another. And the reason why we give Christmas season! That is the Christmas season? would take out a kiss and remember the love of his lit- of ourselves is because we commemorate the gift God This past week, as I was speaking with one of my staff tle daughter who put it there. — The gift of love. gave us — His Son. members, we began to discuss putting up Christmas It’s about presents. Christmas really is about pres- So what gift we will give this Christmas? But not only decorations in the office. As we were talking about ents. this Christmas, but also every day of the year. Will it be Christmas decorations, she told me that at her son’s It’s about a contest held to find the most caring child. the gift of love by telling our family and friends how school, her son’s class had to write an essay on what The winner was a four-year-old boy whose next door special they are to us? The gift of consolation by re- Christmas meant to them. When her son showed her neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently membering those who have no one else to remember the essay he had written, she did not see any mention lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy them; by visiting those who have no one to visit them? whatsoever about Jesus or His Birth. So she asked her went into the gentleman’s yard, climbed onto his lap, Bringing the gift of laughter to those who are in sorrow; son why he didn’t mention anything about Jesus. He re- and just sat there. When his mother asked the little boy imparting the gift of faith, by keeping Jesus Christ as the sponded to her and said, “Well mom, Christmas isn’t what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, focus of our Christmas. about Christ anymore”; that’s not what it is about any- “Nothing… I just helped him cry.” — The gift of consola- Therefore, how we can give of ourselves is perhaps more? Then what is Christmas about? “It’s about pres- tion. summarized best in the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi ents,”he said. It’s about presents. Christmas really is about pres- who said: It’s about presents. ents. It’s about a four-year-old who went to the pedia- O Lord, make us instruments of your peace. When I first heard this story, I was shocked and dis- trician for a check up. As the doctor looked down her Where there is hatred, let us sow love. turbed; but the more I thought about it, the more I be- ears with an otoscope, he asked, “Do you think I’ll find Where there is injury, pardon, gan to realize that he’s right. Christmas really is about Big Bird in here?” The little girl stayed silent. Next, the Where there is doubt, faith, presents. doctor took a tongue depressor and looked down her Where there is despair, hope, But what kind of presents? It’s about a father who throat. He asked, “Do you think I’ll find the Cookie Mon- Where there is darkness, light, punished his three-year-old daughter for wasting a roll ster down there?” Again, the little girl was silent. Then And where there is sadness, joy. of gold wrapping paper. Since money was tight, he be- the doctor put a stethoscope to her chest. As he lis- O Divine Master, grant that we may not so much seek came furious when his little daughter tried to decorate tened to her heartbeat, he asked, “Do you think I’ll hear to be consoled, as to console; a box with gold wrapping paper and put it under the Barney in here?” Oh no!”, the little girl replied. “Jesus is To be understood, as to understand; Christmas tree. Yet, on Christmas day, the little girl in my heart.” — The gift of faith. To be loved, as to love; brought the gift wrapped in gold paper to her father It’s about presents. Christmas really is about pres- For it is in giving that we receive— and said, “This is for you, Daddy.” When he saw the gift, ents. It’s about God, who loved each one of us so much It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; he was embarrassed by his earlier reaction, but his that he gave us his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ so And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. anger flared up again when he unwrapped the gift, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but Amen. opened the box, and found it to be empty. have eternal life. — The ultimate gift. Source: GOAA

ST EUPHEMIA COLLEGE (NSW)

ST EUPHEMIA REMEMBERS Along with similar services held throughout schools across the country and overseas, St Euphemia College held a Commemorative Service marking Remembrance Day on Friday, 11 November 2016. This is a significant annual event at the College which highlights the special importance of this day in remembering those who have given their lives in numerous conflicts throughout history so we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. The Flanders Poppy is a flower that has been used since 1921 to commemorate military personnel who have died in war. During the First World War, red poppies were among the first plants to spring up in the devastated battlefields of northern France and Belgium. All present at the Commemorative Service wore poppies which were made by Year 7 students at the College. The Service was conducted by Father Peter Mavrommatis and the Masters of Ceremonies duties were carried out by the High School Captains John Allagiannis and Alexandra Janes. The School Coordinator, Ms Zafiriou and two student representatives laid a wreath in memory of the fallen. Teachers, staff and students from Years 6 to Year 12 attended. As is customary, a minute’s silence was held at 11 am. The service was concluded with the singing of the National Anthems of Australia and Greece. 202 Stacey Street, Bankstown 9796 8240 www.steuphemia.nsw.edu.au DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/39 ST SPYRIDON COLLEGE

Scholarships for new and existing students for 2018:

Academic Scholarships offered for entry to Year 7 and Year 11 in 2018 on the basis of ACER exam results. Year 12 students who achieve an ATAR of 97.0 or above, will receive a scholarship to assist with payment of fees for their first year of University study. Entries close on Monday 6th February 2017. Exams will be held at the College on Saturday 25th February 2017. Applications and information are available via our website under the “Scholarships and Awards” icon. For further information please call Angela Kringas on (02) 9311 3340 or online at www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au

For enrolment information please contact the Enrolment Officer: Angela Kringas by email at [email protected] DECEMBER 2016 12/40 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 13/41 14/42 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA DECEMBER 2016

MIRACLE WORKER Eleni Georgiou outsmarted a kidnapper and overcame a killer disease to take over her family’s iconic Newcastle business It’s 5.30am on a bitter winter’s morn- see it as an escape from reality and it ing in suburban Hamilton, and 13-year- doesn’t appeal. I just appreciate life.” old Eleni Kiriakidis is being dragged out of her bedroom window by a junkie THE BUSINESS wielding a blood-filled syringe. All het up on ice, the man has broken Standing amid the crammed shelves of into the Kiriakidis family home, stolen Nina’s IGA located in the heart of Beau- two laptops and the handbag of family mont Street, Eleni Georgiou [she married matriarch Nina, and now, in the dim her sweetheart Andrew two years ago] morning light outside, is ordering Eleni to rattles off the ever-expanding range of use the car keys to open the family car vegan products for which the business is and get the hell in. getting a strong real- time and social me- In a fleeting second, the school girl has dia following. managed to grab a mobile phone with- “People get annoyed with vegans but out her abductor seeing and, somehow, Family ties: “He’s my biggest mentor, I’ll always check things with him even if I know the I’ve learnt so much from them, they have she remains strangely calm. answer; I’ll always ask myself, ‘what would Dad do?’,” says Eleni Georgiou of her father , never forced it on me, they are passion- “I had access to the outside world and George Kiriakidis. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers. ate about it and that makes you want to I was going to call 000 and just stay on How Eleni aided and abetted her cap- captured on its security camera. learn more,” she says with her trade- the line so they could trace me,” recalls tor’s getaway and resisted the urge to And how, when the man visited an ac- mark vim. the now 24-year-old today of the ordeal run when he was sitting behind the quaintance’s house, she was articulate e- In fact, she commissioned some of her that would dominate the front page of wheel of the car, urging her to get in. nough to tell a woman at the address new-found vegan connections to survey the The Herald on August 19, 2005. How she placated the 29-year-old what had happened – prompting a every label on every product in the shop “All I cared about was that my mum junkie as he drove around Newcastle, neighbour to drive her to the police. to see what was vegan-friendly. and sister didn’t wake up, the guy was on stopping at ATMs to deplete her mother As horrifying as the situation was, Ele- “There are a lot of products that are ice, he had a syringe, I didn’t care about Nina’s bank account. ni’s father, George, who was in Sydney accidentally vegan, like Gravox and myself.” How she drew on her smarts to help on business when the man invaded his tartare sauce,” Eleni explains, standing There are many details of the ensuing, catch her thief, for example feigning ig- home, later told the media that his youn- near an entire freezer full of vegan three-hour saga that stand out. norance of how to use an ATM so he was gest daughter had always been “strong”. goods. “Once we knew what was what, “I knew her personality and the way we put green labels on our shelves to in- she deals with things,” he said proudly. dicate every product that is vegan. I think But Nina Kiriakidis, namesake and ma- we’re the only ones to do that.” triarch of Nina’s IGA in Beaumont Street, The long list of largely European foods Hamilton, the migrant success story that imported by Nina and George Kiriakidis next year marks 30 years in business, since they opened the store on February doesn’t like to discuss the event she says 7, 1987, to satisfy migrant demands con- “brought me to my knees”. tinue to be stocked in abundance. “Eleni is always very composed, it’s an But the gentrification of Hamilton has exceptional trait to have, and she’s defi- brought a new generation of customers nitely sharp,” she emails from her native – from vegans to those with dietary in- Greece, where she is holidaying. tolerances to young, food-fanatic cou- “She believes that everything is tran- ples who want the best of the best in sient, and it is.” fresh produce and deli lines. The 2005 kidnapping was not the first “Eleni is building the business to a new time Nina Kiriakidis feared she would level in her own right and she is to be lose her daughter. Eleni was eight when commended for that,” says Mrs Kiriaki- repeated headaches prompted her dis. mother to take her multiple times to the “I used to walk into the store and say doctor. ‘How can I improve this place’ and she’s With blood tests returning normal, Ni- the same,” says George Kiriakidis, adding na Kiriakidis refused to be viewed as that he is proud of both Eleni and his eld- “just another neurotic mother” and dur- est daughter, Sofia. ing another trip to John Hunter Hospital, “Eleni has that positive attitude, she’s insisted that doctors monitor Eleni for an more dynamic [than me] though.” extra 10 minutes. The store known simply as Nina’s has “In that period, Eleni brought down the bounced back from a grim period about whole of the emergency ward screaming five years ago, when the arrival of Wool- for me, I watched her body in terror as worths at Marketown and Aldi nearby lesions instantly appeared and multiplied plus discount chemists in Hamilton made by the second,” recalls Mrs Kiriakidis. Di- for a tough market. agnosed with meningococcal and given a “We readjusted our purchasing and lumber puncture, Eleni was placed in an staffing and pared back costs and got induced coma for 10 days. more energy efficient in our operations,” “The doctor spoke with George and says Eleni. myself, making it quite clear that... she Though hard to believe, it was never a possibly won’t survive [and] if she does, granted that she would take over the will be brain damaged and deaf,” says store. She had plans to go to university Mrs Kiriakidis. before realising she wasn’t convinced it Thankfully, Eleni made a full recovery. was for her. But her first day behind the And the medical emergency and the cash register flicked a switch in her. kidnapping saga have, Eleni insists, left “I stayed there for the entire day, nine no scars. “They have formed me, sure, hours, and I didn’t move,” she smiles. but they’ve just made me appreciate “I love talking to people and I love their simplicity,” she says. energy and I felt good, I felt like I was “I’ve never done drugs or alcohol, I just DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/43

Cont. from previous page young Lady we know and love, and that The Kiriakidis she will continue to offer so much to so making their day better. I didn’t want to Family: from left to many people around her. She is the joy right: Oscar, George, go home.” University, she continues, is Nina, Eleni and and pride of her family and all of us. She not for everyone, though sometimes Sofia. will always be.” thinks she should do a business degree to Assistant treasurer of the Holy Apos - make the store better. “Whatever people tles community executive committee learn in their degrees I have got in store and key organiser of the church’s Greek – I know nothing about KPIs but I know language and dance school, Eleni is what customers want,” she says. proud of her heritage and passing it on. “My biggest goal through business and “I sound bogan, I’m not the Greekest life is to make people happy and whatev- person you will meet, but I’m so proud of er I can do, I will.” With a few investment our culture, I guess we are warm peo- properties under her belt, she’s also ple,” she says, her eyes lighting up. keen to put the wind in the sails of those “My parents didn’t force Greekness who have aspirations in life. upon me but it’s part of my life and I’ll be “All my friends say ‘you bought your working hard to keep that when I have first house at 19, I’m never going to be children.” able to do that and I say ‘well, you don’t reason this young person will find his morrow. For now, her focus is on the supermar- have to, but if you want to do something way back to Society. I feel the need to emphasize that the ket: over the past year she has been you can do it,” she says. The parents of our Language and Danc- upbringing of this young woman is one of gradually stepping in as the boss as Father Nicholas Scordillis, priest at the ing Schools and all people involved with the many blessings in her life and the George takes a step towards retirement. Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox parish in our Community, all adore Eleni. Because main force behind her up to now, many Plans to completely renovate the store Hamilton, can attest to this trait in the of her hard work and dedication in every- achievements. She is the priceless fruit have been shelved in favour of a “ma- child he has known from the day she was thing she attempts, she has earned the of endless combined efforts of both her keover” and she has a vision to open mo- born. Community’s admiration, and the admi- parents, George and Nina. I also strongly re stores and a grocer-cafe business. She “Eleni is a very hard working and caring ration and affection of all her colleagues, believe, that it is her mother, a beautiful won’t commit to a rebrand that removes person.I can tell you many stories of how in the Executive Lady, a unique and beautiful human be- the name of Nina, who like George is the caring she is, but I will just mention the Committee of our Parish and Commu- ing, who is “the great example” for Eleni, child of migrant families whose tentacles latest. A few months ago, she caught a nity, in which she holds the position of and indeed a great blessing in her life. in Hamilton’s Greek community spread young man shoplifting. She approached Assistant Treasurer. Of course, it goes And since October 2014, she has been far. him. She gave him some help. She real- without saying, that Eleni, from her very blessed with one more gift from Above. “She’s mum and she’s what I think of ized the young man had a drug problem. young age has won my affection and Her marriage to Andrew Georgiou, a per- when I think of the store,” says Eleni. She spoke to him like an older sister. This love. But in recent years she has also son numbered among the most promis- “She’s the most loving human being in young man today is in a rehabilitation earned, my admiration together with my ing young men and held in high regard in the word, soft and caring, and she re- program. Eleni promised him work when deep respect. That is why I say that Eleni our Society. flects who I want the business to be.” he finished the rehab program. I believe is the kind of person our Society counts My wish is that she will never change, she saved his life. Eleni’s kindness is the on in its hopes of building a better to- she will continue to be the beautiful Source: The Newcastle Herald (26/11/2016)

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia ST EUPHEMIASSoommee vvaaccaannccii eess eexxiisstt KK--1122 ffoorr 22001177 The Board COLLEGE of Directors iffi Reverend Fathers Panagiotis Protopsaltis and Peter Mavrommatis, the President Peter Theophilou OAM, the Board of Directors and the School Committee, the Principal and all Teachers and Staff members of St Euphemia College take this opportunity to wish you Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful New Year 2017

St Euphemia College is a K-12, co-educationalSome Greekv Orthodoxaca dayn School.cies exist Our educational ideals are encapsulatedSom in oure mottov a‘Striv‘Strivece afforor nExcellence’Excellencecie’. s exist ST EUPHEMIA COLLEGE 202 Stacey Street, Bankstown, NSW 2200 KK--1122 ffoorr 22001177 CContactontact usthe f orSchool more Secretariesinformation: for Phone: more (02)information: 9796 8240 Phone: Fax: (02) (02) 9790 9796 7354 8240 Fax: (02) 9790 7354 School email: Ná[email protected]áN RSETOHELIAMRVEDTATEHOTESR * ATDEVRMAILE Website:TA • WWeebsite: www.steuphemia.nsw.edu.au VVVRSETOHELIAMRVEDTATVVV MAILEHOTESRV TATDEVRM DECEMBER 2016 16/44 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

The Nativity of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ

the ass his master's crib" (Isaiah 1: 3). But while the December 25 earth gave the new-born Saviour such a humble recep- tion, Heaven on high celebrated majestically His world- The incomprehensible and inexplicable Nativity of saving coming. Christ came to pass when Herod the Great was reign- A wondrous star, shining with uncommon brightness ing in Judea; the latter was an Ascalonite on his fa- and following a strange course, led Magi from the East ther's side and an Idumean on his mother's. He was in to Bethlehem to worship the new-born King. Certain every way foreign to the royal line of David; rather, he shepherds who were in the area of Bethlehem, who had received his authority from the Roman emperors, kept watch while tending their sheep, were suddenly and had ruled tyrannically over the Jewish people for surrounded by an extraordinary light, and they saw be- some thirty-three years. fore them an Angel who proclaimed to them the good The tribe of Judah, which had reigned of old, was de- tidings of the Lord's joyous Nativity. And straightway, prived of its rights and stripped of all rule and authori- together with this Angel, they beheld and heard a ty. Such was the condition of the Jews when the await- whole host of the Heavenly Powers praising God and ed Messiah was born, and truly thus was fulfilled the saying: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth prophecy which the Patriarch Jacob had spoken 1,807 peace, good will towards men" (Luke 2:8-14). years before: "A ruler shall not fail from Judah, nor a prince from Apolytikion in the Fourth Tone his loins, until there come the things stored up for him; and he is the expectation of the nations" (Gen.49:10). Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shined the light of Thus, our Saviour was born in Bethlehem, a city of knowledge upon the world; for thereby they that wor- Judea, whither Joseph had come from Nazareth of shipped the stars were instructed by a star to worship Galilee, taking Mary his betrothed, who was with child, Thee, the Sun of Righteousness, and to know Thee, the that, according to the decree issued in those days by Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory be to Thee. the Emperor Augustus, they might be registered in the census of those subject to Rome. Kontakion in the Third Tone Therefore, when the time came for the Virgin to give birth, and since because of the great multitude there Today, the Virgin bears Him who is transcendent, and was no place in the inn, the Virgin's circumstace con- the earth presents the cave to Him who is beyond strained them to enter a cave which was near Bethle- reach. Angels, along with shepherds glorify Him. The hem. Having as shelter a stable of irrational beasts, she between two animals, an ox and an ass, that the words Magi make their way to Him by a star. For a new child gave birth there, and swaddled the Infant and laid Him of the Prophets might be fulfilled: has been born for us, the God before all ages. in the manger (Luke 2:1-7). From this, the tradition has "Between two living creatures shalt Thou be known" come down to us that when Christ was born He lay (Abbacum 3:2), and "The ox knoweth his owner and Source: www.goarch.org World Pankration Championship Eboli Italy

Fifty six countries with over 1000 athletes from all 1 bronze in Kato Pankration in the Veterans Championships in both Freestyle and over the World competed in the World Pankration * Chris Chrisandakidis 1 bronze in Pyx Lax Greco Roman Wrestling. Championship that took place 12-14 November in the * Adonis Dimitriou. 1 silver in Pankration 1 silver in The Greek community was represented by the Greek Italian city of Eboli. Kato Pankration and 1 silver in Pankration club from Tempe. Italy competed with 180 athletes, Greece with 140, Pyx lax Results were: while there were some very small teams like Cuba with * Kostas Papaioannou 1 gold in Pankration 1 gold in * Helen Daskalakis Gold Medal in 71 kgs in Freestyle 2 athletes and Nepal with 1. Kato Pankration Wrestling Australia competed with 17 athletes including 8 * Kostas Prasoulas 1 bronze metal in Polydama * Panagiotis Zakis. Gold Medal in 95 kgs in Freestyle Greek Australians winning 9 gold, 6 silver and 7 bronze This is the best result for Australia in the history of Wrestling medals. Pankration and proves that Australia is a power in this * Kostas Papaioannou Gold Medal in 76 kgs Freestyle Italy was 1st, Greece 2nd, Russia 3rd, Romania 4th, sport. Wrestling and Gold Medal in Australia 5th, and USA 6th. The Australian team would like to thank the Mytelen- 74 kgs in Greco roman Wrestling. * Helen Daskalakis won 3 gold in Pankration, Kato ian brotherhood, the Hellenic Club, Birch Water and Mr Pankration and Pyx Lax Dimitris Spiridopoulos for all their help in financing the The Greek Pankration Club has had a very busy year * Margarita Fasoularis won 2 gold in Pankration and team. with 18 competitions including the World Pankration Pyx Lax Veterans Championships Championship in Italy. * Caleb Messas won 1 bronze in Pankration and 1 It has produced this year 12 Australian Champions gold in Pyx lax On Saturday December 3 at Sydney University 40 Ath- and 4 World Champions in different Martial Arts. * Anastasios Christopoulos 1 silver in Pankration and letes over 40 years old from around Australia competed DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 17/45 WishingWisshingg yyouou a

GREEK ORTHODOX Blessed ARCHDIOCESE Christmas OF AUSTRALIA

At Christmas Τα Χριστούγεννα ѦўѪىWe are thankful for the cherished moments фًѥњѫѬўўѭќѦَѥѨѦўѪќѢњѬѢѪњќњ›Ѡѥ   وѦўѢىѣњѥўѥўѬѠѦѨѢѣѨќيѪ›ѨѭѥѨѢѩњѫѬىwe share with our family and friends. ѫѬѢќѥ  ѥњѪѣњѢѮًѤѨѭѪ From our home to yours, St Basil’s Homes  SA) wishes you a Christmas blessed with р›ٌѬѨѝѢѣٌѥњѪѫ›ѢѬѢѣٌѫѬѨѝѢѣٌѫњѪѬѨ)  Ѧњى6$ ѫњѪўٍѯўѬњѢўѭѤѨќѠѥ those you love and may 2017 bring 6W%DVLO·V     ѬўѣњѢوѕѩѢѫѬѨٍќўѦѦњѥўњѭѬѨٍѪ›Ѩѭњќњ› peace and happiness.     ѦѠѣњѢ(ѭѬѭѯًњيѩўѢ(ѢѩىѩѢѬѨѦњѮوѥњѣ Dedicated care, every day of the year.

Making everyy daerev dadayyy count. St Basil’s Homes (SA) Residential and Plateia Day Respite Care Program Corporate Office Aegean Village St Peters Croydon Park 104 Henley Beach Road 10 Morton Road 9 Winchester Street 83–93 Regency Road Mile End SA 5031 Christie Downs SA 5164 St Peters SA 5069 Croydon Park SA 5008

T 08 7424 0900 stbasils.com.au stbasilshomes DECEMBER 2016 18/46 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ December 25

The Feast of the Nativity of Jesus is one of the most joyful small town and there were many descendants of David who days of the Orthodox Church. It ranks next to the greatest had come to register for the census. By the time Mary and holiday, the Resurrection of Jesus. The Feast of the Birth of Joseph arrived in Bethlehem there was no place for them to Jesus is also known as the “Incarnation of Christ.” This stay. Joseph tried very hard to find a place to sleep that means that Jesus became a man and came into the world to evening. There was no room at the inn. Finally, Joseph found save us. We also refer to this joyous feast as Christmas. a cave-like place where they could rest. This place was used by shepherds to protect their sheep in stormy weather. It BIBLICAL STORY was here that Mary gave birth to Jesus. The baby was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in the straw in the The story of the Nativity of Christ is beautifully told in the manger. Holy Scriptures. The story is found in Matthew 1:18-25 and Now, that night the shepherds were out in the fields in Luke 2:1-20. No matter how often the Birth of Jesus is guarding their sheep. Suddenly, there was a bright light told, we realize that it is an important event. which startled the shepherds. The light was so bright that it As the story is told by the Apostles, the Roman Empire was turned the night into daylight. Of course, the shepherds powerful. The Romans had conquered much of the then were frightened. Nothing such as this had ever happened. known world. Judea and Samaria, what we know today as Is- Soon an angel appeared and calmed them. The angel said: rael, were included in their conquests. Emperor Augustus or- “Fear not for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, dered that a census be taken in all his lands. He needed to which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in know how many people lived in the empire so he could tax the city of David a Savior; which is Christ the Lord. And this them. Everyone had to go to the town of their family’s origin shall be a sign unto you: You shall find the babe wrapped in to register for the census. This meant that Mary and Joseph swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:11-12). had to go to Bethlehem. They were descendants of King Then a larger group of angels appeared. They praised and David and Bethlehem was the City of David. glorified God and sang, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Mary and Joseph lived in Nazareth and it was a great dis- earth peace, and good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). When tance from Bethlehem. It was about 100 miles over very the angels finished singing, they disappeared and the light rugged roads. Moreover, Mary was expecting the baby and began to fade. It became dimmer and dimmer until it was it was almost time for her to give birth. Bethlehem was a dark again. The shepherds were awed.

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia ST EUPHEMIA COLLEGE 202 Stacey Street, Bankstown, NSW 2200 Tel: (02) 9796 8240 Fax: (02)9790 7354 School email: [email protected] * Website: www.steuphemia.nsw.edu.au

Congratulations to our School Captain Anastasia Lamprinos for receiving the most prestigious School award - Dux of Year 6.

These photos represent the many significant events that have taken place over the last few weeks at St Euphemia College. Congra tulations to all the students and staff of the School for their dedication and hard work. Wishing everyone a wonderful and safe Christmas break. DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 19/47

Cont. from previous page THE ORTHODOX CELEBRATION OF THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY They didn’t know what to do. Finally, they decided to leave their flocks of sheep and go to Bethlehem. They As with Pascha, or Easter, the Feast of the Nativity be- decided that they wanted to see for themselves what gins with a period of preparation. It is proceeded by a the angels had told them. When they got to Bethlehem, fast corresponding to Lent and lasting for forty days. they found Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus. They fell The fast begins on November 15. to their knees and adored Jesus. On the Sundays immediately before December 25, Some Wise Men came from the East for they knew of special commemorations emphasize the link between the coming of Jesus. They had seen a star that told the Old Covenant and the New. On December 20 the them that a new king had been born to the Jews. They Forefeast of the Nativity is commemorated, and the followed the star and were looking for the child. At this daily liturgical texts are directed toward the Feast itself. time the governor of Judea was King Herod. He was a 5. An angel gives glory to God and announces the good On Christmas Eve, services include the Great or Royal wicked man and was feared and hated by the people. news of His birth (detail). Hours, the Great Vespers, and the Liturgy of Saint Basil. When Herod heard about the Wise Men looking for the On the left hand side of the icon is another scene. The On Christmas Day the service commemorates the child, he invited them to his palace. Herod asked the Wise Men (3), who were led by the star, are riding hors- birth of Christ in Bethlehem, the adoration of the Shep- Wise Men to find the child so that he, too, could wor- es to bring their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh herds, and the arrival of the Wise Men with their gifts. ship Him. But Herod was lying. He did not want anyone to Jesus. The service held on this day is the Liturgy of Saint John to take his place. The Wise Men went on to look for Je- The Wise Men are of various ages. One is without a Chrysostom. sus. The Star led them to Jesus and Mary. When the beard. In those days, young men did not wear beards. The days following Christmas are associated with the Wise Men found Jesus, they fell to their knees and wor- The other Wise Man has long hair and a long beard, Theotokos and Joseph. December 26 is the Synaxis of shipped Him. They gave Jesus gifts of gold, frankin- which indicates that he is much older. These details the Mother of God, and the first Sunday after the Feast cense, and myrrh. The Wise Men left but did not return teach that regardless of age and appearance, the Good commemorates “Joseph the Betrothed.” December 29 to Herod. They had a dream that warned them that News was given to each and everyone. commemorates the Massacre of the Innocents, and Herod wanted to harm Jesus. Instead, they returned to Opposite the Wise Men is the scene with the humble January 1 the Circumcision of our Lord. The Nativity their native country by a different route. shepherds. An angel proclaims the glad tidings. A young season concludes on December 31, but the spirit of the shepherd plays a reed instrument (4). This scene reveals festival extends to the celebration of Theophany ICON OF THE NATIVITY that the music of the humans was added to the hymn of (Epiphany), the feast commemorating the Baptism of The icon of the Nativity tells the story of Christ’s birth the angels. Across from the shepherd’s scene is the our Lord in the Jordan River. from the Scriptures. It also shows that all creation is heavenly choir of angels (5). They are giving glory to taking part in Christ’s birth. The angels give thanks with God. The angels serve two purposes in the Nativity of HYMNS OF THE FEAST their song; the heavens give the star; the Wise Men give Christ. They give glory to God and announce the good their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The poor, news to all mankind. Apolytikion: (Fourth Tone) humble shepherds give their praise and amazement; The background shows a very rugged terrain. This is the earth gives the cave, and humanity gives the Virgin. not a true representation of the land in this area. Your birth, O Christ our God, dawned the light of Joseph could not find room in Bethlehem, so they went knowledge upon the earth. For by Your birth those who outside of Bethlehem to a cave. This rocky mountain adored stars, were taught by a star, to worship You, the formation only serves as a background for the event. Sun of Justice and to know You, Orient from on High. O In the lower part of the icon are two more scenes. In Lord, glory to You. the right hand corner are the two women Joseph brought to take care of the Christ child (6). They are Kontakion: (Third Tone) bathing Him just as any baby is bathed. The humanity of Jesus is clearly shown in this setting. Today, the Virgin bears Him who is transcendent, and 1. The icon of the Nativity stresses the importance of the the earth presents the cave to Him who is beyond Theotokos, the Mother of Jesus (detail). 2. The Christ Child, seen here in swaddling clothes, lies in a manger reach. Angels, along with shepherds glorify Him. The guarded by the ox and donkey (detail). Magi make their way to Him by a star. For a new child has been born for us, the God before all ages. This Holy Icon is an icon with many scenes. First, it stresses the importance of the Theotokos, the Mother RESOURCES of Jesus (1). She is placed in the center and is the largest figure in the icon. In this icon, she is kneeling with Icon of the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ written by the hand of Athanasios Clark and used with permission. © Greek Orthodox crossed arms, looking at the Christ child. The three 6. Satan is depicted as an old man who is tempting Joseph Archdiocese of America stars, denoting her virginity before, during, and after not to believe in the virgin birth of Jesus (detail). 7. In the The Story of the Icons by Dr. Mary Paloumpis Hallick. the Nativity, are on her garments. The Christ Child (2), right hand corner are the two women Joseph brought to in the center of the icon, is in swaddling clothes and is take care of the Christ child. (detail). The Festal Menaion translated by Mother Mary (South Canaan, PA: St. Tikhon’s Seminary Press, 1969) pp. 52-55. lying in the manger. In the background is the dark cave Opposite the bathing of Jesus scene sits a sad and where He was born. In the cave are an ox and a donkey The Incarnate God: The Feasts of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, worried Joseph (7). He is not part of the central group guarding the newborn Babe. Even though the Gospels Cathering Aslanoff, editor and Paul Meyendorff, translator (Crestwood, the Christ Child and the Theotokos. Joseph is not the say nothing of the cave, this information is from Holy NY: St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1995) pp. 103-121. natural father. Joseph is troubled and despondent. Tradition. Neither do the Gospels speak of the ox and There is an old man talking to Joseph. the donkey, but all icons of the Nativity include these The old man is Satan. Satan can appear in many animals. Including the animals in the icon fulfills the forms. Here he is as an old man who is tempting Joseph The Greek Australian prophecy of Isaiah 1:3, “The ox knows his master, and and disturbing him. Satan is telling Joseph that virgin the donkey his master’s crib; but Israel does not know birth is impossible. He’s telling Joseph that he’s a fool if Vema me, and the people have not regarded me.” The long he believes this. This story comes to us from Holy Tradi- THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest ray of light from the star points directly to the cave. This circulating Greek newspaper VEMA outside tion. The sad Joseph shows us not only his personal Greece ray comes from the star and travels to all parts of the NOVEMBER 2015 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] OUR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW: Autonomous and Heteronomous Ethics predicament but the dilemma of all mankind the diffi- PAGES 5/23 world. It teaches that this bright star is an astronomical culty of accepting that which is “beyond words or rea- happening, and is a messenger from heaven announc-

St Andrews Inaugural Theology Symposium 2015 son.” A Great Success! St Andrew’s Theological College held its Inaugural Theology Symposium on the 9th and 10th October, 2015. The theme of the ing the birth of Jesus. Theology Symposium was, “The Earth is the Lord’s: Environmental Theology and Ethics”. The tree, which is in the middle of the lower part of PAGES 8/26 - 9/27 Europe’s populist right targets migration after Paris attacks the icon, is a symbol of the Tree of Jesse. This tree FRANCE

Alexandrian Legacy launched by Prof. Carole M. Cusack refers to Isaiah 11:1-2, “But a shoot shall sprout from PAGE 10/28 AT WAR with Islamic State

Populist leaders around Europe rushed to demand an for its attitude to Islam. French President Francois Hol- the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blos- end to an influx of refugees and migrants from the Mid- lande said the group, also known as ISIS or by the Arabic dle East and Africa on Saturday after a wave of deadly at- acronym Daesh, had organised the attacks from abroad tacks in Paris claimed by Islamic State militants. with internal help. He said France was at war with Daesh. The carnage in the French capital, directly linked to the In a comment on the right-leaning news portal wPoli- conflicts in Syria and Iraq, seemed bound to further com- tyce.pl, Konrad Szymanski said his incoming government Phronema: Celebrating plicate the European Union’s task in sharing out hun- did not agree with the previous Polish administration’s the 30th Anniversary dreds of thousands of migrants who have entered the commitment to accept a share of an EU-wide relocation bloc this year, fleeing war and poverty. of immigrants. The first issue of Phronema - which can Poland’s designated Europe minister said Warsaw “In the face of the tragic acts in Paris, we do not see mean ‘ethos,’ ‘disposition,’ and ‘mindset’ - could not take in refugees under an EU quota system af- the political possibilities to implement (this),” he said. som. was published in the same year as the Col- ter the recent wave of attacks on restaurants, a concert Szymanski will take up his position as minister for Euro- lege’s founding highlights both its founder’s hall and a soccer stadium in Paris, in which 129 people pean affairs on Monday as part of a government formed vision for St Andrew’s and for the journal; it died and some 200 were injured. by the conservative and Eurosceptic Law and Justice (PiS) would employ all the rigours of scholarship The Islamic State militant group based in Syria and Iraq party, which won a general election last month. shaped by a genuine Christian spirit. claimed responsibility for the carnage, saying it was to The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him.” King David PAGE 7/25 punish France for its involvement in those conflicts and Cont. page 15/33 was often mentioned as the son of Jesse and Jesus was from the House of David. The oldest circulating The Holy Icon of the Nativity reminds one to praise newspaper outside Greece and glorify the Birth of Christ. The celebration of Christ- 3. The Wise Men, are seen in the icon riding towards the mas each year serves to remind each and everyone of light from the star (detail). 4. Opposite from the Wise Men Tel: (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 us that Christ came for you and me. Email: [email protected] sits a young shepherd boy plays music for his flock (detail). DECEMBER 2016 20/48 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Where the Ancient Faith + 21st century media merge The Brothers Robinson

How do you see your faith inspiring your work? How Brother Andrew - is Orthodoxy integrated into your creative process? acting and directing S: I don’t think we really differentiate between secu- lar and religious story-lines. Whatever we do, By Chris Vlahonasios on the set of The Alternate whether it’s a crazy comedy, a drama or a documen- TRANSFIGURE Media film tary, our aim is to keep Christ at its centre. Are we making you laugh in a good way? Is our message in the film consistent with what we believe as Chris- - PART 1 - tians? We pray through all the stages of the film, from the script through to the filming and to the post pro- Stephen Robinson and his brother, Andrew, are a duction. filmmaker-duo that experiment with films across all genres. In Skype interview I talked with the brothers A: We also have this concept, that, even if God isn’t about their passion for film and the influence of stated to be in the story, He is always a “character”, their Faith in the medium. as in; He exists in the universe of every film we make and want to make. I like the idea of hope, as orthodox Christians, we know from the saints and martyrs that What drew you to film making? even if a story doesn’t seem to end well, there is al- S: I think the love of films, and the ability to tell great ways this hope that we’re left with. God always wins. stories through them. And the feeling that there are a lot of stories that need to be told. What advice can you give to other young Orthodox film makers? A: Initially it was just the enjoyment of being able to S: The advice that we’ve been given is to keep making make something fun, something entertaining, and things. Even if all you have is a basic camera and one something short. Then it eventually turned into actor (a friend, or in my case, a younger brother) – something more like what Stephan is saying, here is a Who are your greatest influences? keep making films. Whenever you search advice from way to present stories with real meaning and pur- S: Tricky question… there are so many movies, books, famous directors, all of them say this. So this is what pose. directors and writers that we feel we take inspiration we’ve been doing, and it’s been working! from. When you come to a question like this, it’s hard What do you think makes film a powerful medium? to think of who they all are. A couple of the directors A: Yep, having a good looking younger brother S: Film combines all the other art forms – story, im- I love are Steven Spielburg and Paul Greengrass; I like helps… Understand what you want to do and don’t agery and music. So it hits a lot of senses at once. Of the way they use cinematography and editing to get caught trying to do what everyone else is doing. It course it’s primarily visual, and we mainly get our in- move the story forward. was a surprising time when people began comment- formation visually nowadays. Film has the power to ing on our “style”. We weren’t trying to make a inspire, entertain, teach, encourage and make state- A: Lord of the Rings. I just want to state that. Books “style” we were making things the way we would like ments. Truth can be presented in such a way that and movies, fantastic. to see them done (in regards to design, humour, sto- anyone can grasp it. ry and message). S: Lord of the Rings, yes, definitely! A: Film has an impact on audiences in many ways, S: Also, try and talk and collaborate with other cre- and especially so to our generation. It can give either A: Anyhow, there are many inspirations and heaps to ative people. Not just film-makers, it’s great to pool clear or misleading expectations of the world and things to learn from all these great directors. But if I ideas and it’s encouraging. Get in touch with us for in- how people work, that’s why it’s important and en- were to give examples of people who have had the stance! couraging to see solid stories being made, of courage, greatest influence on us… the works of writers such truth and kindness. Imagination is a powerful thing, as C.S Lewis. To put truth in ways like he did, with film gives voice to this. Narnia and his other books, more than genius. (TO BE CONTINUED)

Left: A still from 'The Alternate. A small moment to honour God in the film.RIGHT: A promotional image from our comedy 'Banana Brothers - Nemesis'. One of our proudest works! DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 21/49

Feast of the Holy Theophany of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ

ence to Christ (3). They are prepared to January 6 receive Him as He comes out of the wa- ter (4). Introduction The Orthodox Celebration The Feast of the Holy Theophany of the Feast of Epiphany (Epiphany) of our Lord God and Savior Je- sus Christ is celebrated each year on Jan- The celebration of this Feast of our uary 6. The Feast commemorates the Lord begins on January 5, a day known as Baptism of Christ and the divine revela- the Forefeast of Theophany. Depending tion of the Holy Trinity. At the Baptism of on the day of the week, this could be an Christ, all three Persons of the Holy Trin- evening service with Vespers followed by ity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - were the Liturgy of Saint Basil or a morning made manifest. Thus, the name of the service with Matins and the Liturgy of Feast is Epiphany, meaning manifesta- Saint John Chrysostom. tion, or Theophany, meaning manifesta- Following the service on January 5, the tion of God. service of the Blessing of the Waters is conducted. Prior to the evening or morn- Biblical Story ing service the Royal Hours with the Typi- ka are said. The Biblical story of the Baptism of On January 6, the day of the Feast, the Christ is recorded in all four of the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom Gospels: Matthew 3, Mark 1:1-9, Luke is conducted preceded by Matins and fol- 3:21-22, and John 1:31-34. lowed by the second Blessing of the Wa- John the Baptist, the cousin of Jesus ters. and the one chosen by God to proclaim The Blessing of the Waters is conduct- His coming, was preaching in the wilder- ed in the church; however in many ness and was baptizing all who would re- places throughout the world services are spond to his message calling for repen- conducted near open bodies of water. As tance. As he was doing this, John was di- a sign of blessing as Christ blessed the recting the people toward the one who Jordan, holy water is poured into the would baptize them with the Holy Spirit body of water. (Matthew 3:11). An associated tradition has been the The Scriptures tell us that Jesus came tossing of a cross into the water to be re- from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be trieved by divers. baptized by him. Initially, John would not The holy water from the church is giv- do this, saying that Jesus should baptize en to the faithful to consume and to use him. Jesus said to John, “Let it be so now; in blessing their homes. In the weeks fol- for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill lowing the Feast, clergy visit the homes all righteousness (3:15). John consented of parishioners and conduct a service of and baptized Jesus. blessing using the holy water that was When Jesus came up from the water, blessed on the Feast of Theophany. the heavens opened suddenly, and the 1 2 Holy Spirit descended upon Him. The Source: www.goarch.org Bible records that the Spirit descended like a dove and alighted on him. Hymns of the Feast When this happened, a voice came from heaven and said, “This is my Son, Apolytikion: (First Tone) the Beloved, with whom I am well Lord, when You were baptized in the pleased.” This was the voice of God the Jordan, the worship of the Trinity was Father. made manifest. For the voice of the Fa- Christ’s baptism in the Jordan was ther gave witness to You, calling You “theophany,” a manifestation of God to Beloved; and the Spirit, in the form of a the world, because it was the beginning dove, confirmed the certainty of His of our Lord’s public ministry. It was also a 3 4 words. Glory to You, Christ our God, who “theophany” in that the world was grant- appeared and enlightened the world. ed a revelation of the Holy Trinity. All Icon of the feast form of a dove descends upon Christ (de- Kontakion: (Fourth Tone) three Persons were made manifest to- tail). In the center of the icon is Christ be- Today You appeared to the world, and gether: the Father testified from on high The Icon of the Feast of Theophany ing baptized in the Jordan. He is standing Your light, O Lord, has left its mark upon to the divine Sonship of Jesus; the Son tells the story from the Gospels in images in the water wearing a waistcloth, and us as in fuller understanding we sing to received His Father’s testimony; and the and color. On the left side of the icon we with His right hand He is blessing the wa- You: “You came, You were made mani- Spirit was seen in the form of a dove, de- see John the Baptist (1) who is dressed in ters of the Jordan. Above His head is the fest, the unapproachable light.” scending from the Father and resting up- camel’s hair and has the appearance of Holy Spirit descending as a dove upon on the Son. one who lives in the wilderness. His arms Him (2). At the top of the icon, a semicir- Resources The theme of “manifestation” or “rev- are outstretched, showing an attitude of cle depicts the opening of the Heavens The Festal Menaion. Translated by Mother elation” is also expressed in Scripture prayer and reverence, but also directing and the voice of the Father. Mary (South Canaan, PA: St. Tikhon’s Seminary with the symbolism of light. In the hymn others to Christ. With his right hand he is 3. Angels of the Lord gathered on the Press, 1969) pp. 55-59. of the Feast we sing, “Christ has ap- conducting the baptism. shore of the Jordan River give praises to The Incarnate God: The Feasts of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, Catherine Aslanoff, editor peared and enlightened the world.” 1. Saint John the Baptist conducts the Christ (detail). 4. An angel of the Lord receives Christ and Paul Meyendorff, translator (Crestwood, Thus, January 6 is also known as the Baptism of our Lord and Savior Jesus NY: St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1995). Feast of Lights. The Church celebrates on Christ (detail). as He comes out of the water (detail). On Festival Icons for the Christian Year by John this day the illumination of the world by 2. The Heavens open, the voice of the the right side of the icon angels are Baggley (Crestwood, NY: St. Vladimir’s Seminary the light of Christ. Father is heard, and the Holy Spirit in the shown with their heads bowed in rever- Press, 2000). DECEMBER 2016 22/50 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Arts, Food & Wine Editor: Imogen Coward Ritual and the art of making special

By Dr Ann Coward

In the 1960s, by which time most Australian house- holds owned a black and white television set, we were treated to an amazing series, called Civilisation. This BBC production, presented by art historian Sir Kenneth Clark, focussed on Western civilisation as expressed through its art. What I remember most from that series, and the thought has never left me, was Sir Clark’s con- clusion as to why civilisations fell after reaching a state of affluence and luxury. His reasoning was profound. They fell, he concluded, because they became bored.

In his 2016 publication, Easternisation: war and peace in the Asian century, Gideon Rachman states boldly in the introduction that “the West’s centuries-long domi- nation of world affairs is now coming to a close”. His reasoning for this happening is somewhat different to Clark’s. It is not so much that the West is in decline but is due, Rachman asserts, basically down to who has the most money and is most technologically savvy: the West or the East, as it was due to their superiority in both of these which historically enabled Europeans to colonise the East.

Colonisation doesn’t simply come to a grinding halt, however, leaving those colonised as they were before being taken over. Attitudes, and material remnants re- through the ages. By setting something aside from oth- According to Dissanayake, humans have an amazing main. This is particularly evident in the arts. For exam- er things, this draws attention to it, and makes it spe- ability to cope with hardship and suffering. By individu- ple, Chin-tao Wu writes about the Dutch in Taiwan in cial. It’s not quite that simple, though, and not every- als and institutions failing to realise that art and art- his 2002 book, Privatising culture: corporate art inter- thing, if we follow her definitions, can be labelled as art, making are common experiences involving making spe- vention since the 1980s - written before China became although her idea of art is not restricted to paintings or cial, rather than private ones, we have arrived at a situ- a force to be reckoned with in the global art market. sculptures or any of the performance arts. As behav- ation where the West is confused as to what consti- Taiwan, or as it was known then, Formosa, was a Dutch iour, it encompasses acts which aim to make special, an tutes art, and whether or not it matters. More impor- colony for 38 years between 1624-62. Wu describes in obvious form of art-making behaviour being rituals. tantly, though, through boredom, born of affluence and some detail attempts by a Dutch bank to attract cus- luxury, we have denied ourselves the ability to view life tomers through its public art projects in Taiwan, featur- It is no accident, to give an English language example, as not only serious, but something which, of basic ne- ing paintings by Van Gogh strangely enough, and by that the King James Bible, and the Church of England’s cessity to humans, looks beyond the ordinary to the ex- replicating his paintings on their credit cards. As Wu Book of Common Prayer were written in the language tra-ordinary to give it meaning and lasting pleasure. notes, associating Van Gogh’s paintings with public art they were. People of the time did not use poetic speech and art competitions, is rather suspect. It comes as no in everyday language, however the poetry inherent in References surprise to anyone familiar, even in a passing manner, these has permeated and influenced the English lan- Clark Kenneth. Civilisation, BBC 1969, remastered in 2011 to the history of the East India Company, to read Wu’s guage. Making special in a ritual, Dissanayake points Dissanayake, Ellen. Homo Aestheticus: where art comes from comments about capitalism being a form of imperial- out, usually requires special clothing, special settings, and why. Seattle, University of Washington Press, 1995 Moss, Tara. The Fictional Woman. Sydney, HarperCollins, 2016 ism. special movements and special language. This goes a Rachman, Gideon. Easternisation: war and peace in the Asian long way to explaining why, when important rituals in century. London, The Bodley Head, 2016 However, holding up Western art as the pinnacle of our modern times use everyday language, for example, Wu, Chin-tai. Privatising Culture: corporate art intervention civilisation is coming at a cost to the West as more and they fail to create a desired response in those partici- since the 1980s. London, more artworks are being bought by private investors in pating. Verso, 2003 the East. But why should it bother Westerners if their artworks are being tucked away in foreign collections? An obvious form of ritual is religious ritual, although Certainly, it’s of no concern to auctioneers, who stand secular rituals may also ‘make special’ by way of sepa- to profit from sales. To find the answer to this, and why rating acts out from the everyday. Traditionally, rituals what we consider special we also feel needs to remain have marked the most important aspects of human life: The Greek Australian within our cultural boundaries, we need to turn to a birth, death, marriage, coming of age, fertility. Rituals field of study which concerns itself with absolute basics have also marked the beginning and ending of wars, the Vema of behaviour. A number of fields may fit this criteria, planting and harvesting of crops, and other activities

THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek but in this instance, I’m going to draw your attention to central to survival. It is in the service of ritual, that Dis- newspaper outside VEMA Greece NOVEMBER 2016 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] a field of study known as ethology. Ethology is the study sanayake concludes the arts were born. That is, those OUR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW THE DUAL ANTIDOTE of animals in their natural habitat. things that are made special, are usually made special PAGE 5/21 for a reason, primarily for survival, or at least, have

St Stylianos Gala 20th Anniversary done so in the past. Celebrations Now, for an ethologist to decide what is a natural The Parish of St Stylianos, Gymea (NSW) cele- brated the 20 years of the Parish on the 15th of October 2016 at the Albert Palais Reception at Leichhardt in the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, Primate of the Greek Or- thodox Church in Australia who also was the The start of main speaker for the evening. The start of habitat for humans is a tricky one, but it has been at- PAGE 10/26 tempted, and with interesting results, most notably by When talking about Western civilisation, Dis- a new chaptter

If we were to take Donald Trump’s pre-election rheto- new jobs that require a much higher set of skills. ric, his declarations and statements, at face value, it is Societies do not have the reflexes to adapt so quickly to obvious that the American tycoon’s election as the 45th the barrage of change and anger is starting to swell to President of the United States signals the start of a new ungovernable proportions as the gap between rich and Big success chapter not just for the country, but also for the West as poor continues to grow, with only the former seeing any Ellen Dissanayake. Disillusioned by Western-centric ap- sanayake’s comments echo those of Sir Kenneth Clark. a whole. benefits. for Perth Glendi 2016 A world that was built on the principles of liberalism This brings us to the second conclusion. What we are The Perth Glendi 2016 took place in Russel and tolerance, on multiculturalism and globalization, seeing is that the way people are voting is being deter- square in Northbridge, just outside of Sts Con- shaped mainly by the Anglo-Saxon elite in the aftermath mined to a significant degree by social class. This aware- stantine and Helen church, on Sunday October of the Second World War – with a lot of help from its ness of class differences has also led to unbridled pop- 23 and proved to be a big success. dominance in the areas of information and communica- ulism, something that the Democrats have clearly failed tion – is now at risk of being dismantled by the lower to address. PAGE 13/29 strata of Anglo-Saxon society, with the US election com- The third point is that the “system,” or the establish- proaches to the study of art and art-making, she set out People today, living in affluent societies, no longer have ing in the wake of the Brexit vote. We could argue, in ment, has obviously failed to acknowledge and under- fact, that the planet is experiencing a seismic shift in po- stand the intensity and depth of public discontent, as is litical and social norms, as was the case in Greece in the evident from the failure of public opinion poll predictions wake of the fall of the 1967-74 junta – a process known in the runup to the US elections and in the waning influ- here as metapolitefsi – but toward something much, ence of the mainstream media, which is fast being re- much worse. placed by social media, where every extremist, moron or The situation of course is much more complex. The un- mouthpiece can shape public opinion. predictable Trump may seem the absolute victor in the The outcome of the US elections has also revealed the the time to care about important things, or to mark im- United States – especially as the Republicans have main- deep division of American society and there is no way to to understand what it is in humans that drives this de- tained their majority in Congress as well – but huge es- predict how this will manifest itself or what it will mean tablished business, strategic and economic interests and in the immediate future. the economic and political structures that have been The wave of the American brand of populism is also built across the West in the past 70 years or so also re- threatening to sweep across Europe, as Trump’s victory main extremely powerful. will provide a boost to similar forces in Italy, Austria, For the time being, there are a few conclusions that France, the Netherlands and even Germany. Kalavryta can be drawn. To begin with, it is evident that the work- The question, therefore, is whether the European ing-class masses in the West are under intense pressure structure will be able to survive the shock. This Peloponnesian town and province have sire to create not only objects, but also settings, rituals portant things. Caring deeply, she says, is out of fash- from globalization and from the leaps in technology that overcome historical adversity to become a are fast eating up existing job positions or generating Source: Kathimerini (9/11/2016) popular winter destination. and so on. Her conclusion, in the book she wrote in the ion. Instead, what we consider special is usually tran- PAGE 16/32 1990s, Homo Aestheticus: where art comes from and sient and flashy, usually presented to us in glossy media why, is that humans have a need to make things spe- which is, as Australian author Tara Moss writes, a “high- cial. This sounds simplistic, but it has very real implica- ly visual advertising-driven domain”. We are no longer The oldest circulating tions for survival. concerned with survival, or rather, we look for ways to cope with surviving in the wrong places. To experience newspaper outside Greece While making special, she notes, usually results in special, in the absence of meaningful art and ritual, we making beautiful, this may not necessarily be the case. turn to alternatives such as films and computer games, Tel: (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 It may result in something outrageous, strange or ex- drugs, anything that we feel may give us a sense of the Email: [email protected] travagant, but beauty is the more usual outcome extra-ordinary. DECEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 23/51

Chance to save ancient language

In a village in northern Cyprus, a community strug- gling to save its ancient language has seen a glimmer of hope in intensified efforts to reunify the divided island. Kormakitis was once the hub of Cyprus’s Maronite mi- nority, descendants of Syrian and Lebanese Christians who spoke Sanna, a unique dialect of Arabic influenced by the Aramaic spoken by Jesus. The language is now severely endangered, according to UNESCO. Uprooted by the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, many Maronites assimilated into Greek-Cypriot com- munities where they sought shelter. They have seen fresh hope in recent months as the Greek- and Turkish- Cypriot leaders intensified their efforts to reunite the is- land. Talks in Switzerland ended on November 21 with no breakthrough, but the leaders have since agreed to re- sume negotiations and are due to meet again in Geneva in January. The Maronites hope a deal could eventually encourage the community to return to live in northern Cyprus. That could help revive Sanna, which is in decline despite years of classes, the efforts of NGOs and an an- nual summer school in the village. “The problem is that because we have lost our village it’s very difficult to keep our language,” teacher K aty Foradari said, taking a break from teaching Sanna under the vaulted ceiling of an 18th century church in K or- makitis. Able to visit and stay in the village despite living out- side the Turkish-occupied part of the island, young Ma- ronites have attended Sanna classes at a summer camp there every August since 2008. In sunbaked sandstone chapels and whitewashed bungalows around the small main square, around 100 children aged 5 to 17 took part in this year’s camp. They learnt basics from the alphabet – codified for the first time only a few years ago – to songs, vocabulary and grammar. Making up less than 1 percent of the island’s popula- tion, Maronites are a branch of the Catholic Church and School pupils attend an Aramaic language course in Nicosia. have been in Cyprus since the 8th century. parts of services still given in the ancient Semitic lan- helping out with the summer camp. But of nearly 5,000 Like many of the volunteers at the school, F oradari guage of Syriac – like their more numerous counter- Maronites living across the island today, only around grew up in K ormakitis, the largest of the island’s four parts in Syria and Lebanon. 1,000 speak Sanna. Some of them see the peace talks as Maronite villages and the last where Sanna was spoken. But Sanna did not weather the displacement well. Be- the best hope in years for reviving their language. But when she was 16, Turkey occupied the northern cause Maronite children do not go to school in K or- For Yiannakis Mousas, the community’s representa- third of Cyprus after an Athens-backed coup in the cap- makitis, “we have started losing our language,” Foradari tive to the Parliament in Nicosia, only a solution to the ital Nicosia. She and most of the community fled to the said. “We are used to speaking Greek.” Cyprus dispute can save Sanna. south, leaving their homes behind. They established A few hundred, mostly elderly, residents remained in “Only through the return of the Maronite people, of Maronite churches in their new communities, with the village after 1974, using Sanna in their daily life and their property, of their schools, of their churches, only in this way do we have a good chance to revive the lan- guage,” he told AFP. Since 1974, Mousas and many other Maronites have been based in Nicosia, the island’s divided capital. They have a modern church and a small social club named af- ter Kormakitis, where they sip coffee a few hundred yards from the UN buffer zone that splits the old town. Mousas said reunifying the island would encourage young Maronites to move to their villages, where they would hear Sanna spoken daily, encouraging them to adopt it again. “Once the Maronites are resettled in their villages, there will be a new beginning,” he said. Le Sands Restaurant But the latest talks produced no concrete results, and the memory of previous, failed negotiations looms over Is specialising in seafood and all the wonderful dishes it has always been known for ongoing efforts to reach a solution. The community is over the past 35 years. We have merged with our Signature Brasserie so have a large teaching Sanna as usual, with classes at Nicosia’s Ma- comprehensive menu available lunch and dinner 7 days a week. ronite primary school and more summer camps plan- ned. “We have to create projects like this camp where Book now for Christmas Day Lunch or New Years Eve. we combine learning the language with entertain- ment,” said Antonis Skoullos, an IT expert in his 40s who helps or- If you would like to book your Christmas Party or any special event ganize the Kormakitis language school. call Elizabeth or Biljana on 9599 4949 He recognized the need to make Sanna appealing to young people who had no memory of living in Kormaki- tis. But nostalgic for the village he fled as a young boy, We wish everyone he admitted his motivation to revive the language was Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy & prosperous 2017 more personal than practical. “Behind this language are my memories and my feelings,” he said. [AFP] DECEMBER 2016 24/52 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Travel Arcadia Home of pastoral simplicity

The heart of the Peloponnese retains a genuine rustic Arcadia feel amid traditional villages and fir forests

BY HARIS ARGYROPOULOS

Arcadia, Greece’s fourth-largest pre- fecture, in the heart of the Pelopon- nese, has inspired art and literature, perhaps most notably Nicolas Poussin’s (1594-1665) two paintings ti- tled “Et in Arcadia ego” – interpreted Ski Center is an added advantage. Le- as an ironic contrast between the dark oforos tis Agapis (Love Avenue), lined realms of death and the customary idle with chestnut trees on both sides, is merrymaking that the nymphs and ideal for a romantic stroll. country lads of this district were Valtetsiniko, 18 km from Vytina at thought to embody in antiquity. 1,050 m, is full of walnut, chestnut and apple trees and surrounded by thick fir forest – a wonderfully lush piece of Idyllic reputation the Greek landscape. The village is well In modern times, its pastoral known for its traditional wooden fur- image has survived, thanks to niture. It is worth visiting the historic the livestock farming tradition chapels of Aghios Nikolaos and Analip- si, carved into the rock. At Lenika, 1 km from Valtetsiniko, there are a few re- Poussin’s shepherds may have mains of Cyclopean walls and an an- been inspired by Virgil, according to cient temple thought to have been ded- whom Arcadia was the home of pas- icated to the goddess Artemis. toral simplicity and happiness. In About 8 km from the coast, on the modern times, the pastoral image has slopes of Mt Parnonas, is Platanos, a largely survived, thanks to the tradi- traditional village with plenty of gren- tion of livestock farming, but, as in the ery, running water and cobblestone

case of much of mountainous main- Angeli] [Dimitra streets. During the waxing moon land Greece, Arcadia has also been every August it holds the romantic through unhappy times, with many a pleasure to explore this medieval collections and even a Water Power feast of the “Waters, Moons and of its villages now depopulated by em- town built near the ruins of ancient Museum. Loves.” Walkers should not miss the igration. Teuthis’s Cyclopean walls. Dimit- Vytina (pop. 2,000), at 1,000 m beautiful Spilakia gorge. Mostly mountainous, it generally sana was a gunpowder production above sea level, has long been known Kosmas, some 30 km from the sea- lacks the wild edge of the mainland center during the War of Indepen- for its excellent climate – pleasantly side town of Leonidio, has amazing Pindus range or Mt Olympus but it has dence of the 1820s and has an historic cooler than other parts of the country, views of the Myrtoon Sea and the is- enough verdant, rugged and scenic el- library housing rare manuscripts, as especially during the summer months. lands of Spetses and Hydra on a clear ements for tourism to have become a well as archaeological and folk history Its proximity (15 km) to the Mainalo day. source of revival in recent decades. The landscape is varied, including the magnificent forest and ski slopes of Mt Mainalo, the valleys and rapids of the rivers Ladonas and Lousios – a haven for rafters and kayakers – the Tripo- lis plateau, Mt Parnonas (Parnon) and the fine beaches of Kynouria on the eastern coast. There are also traditional villages where extensive restoration has done a wonderful job in rescuing and tapping heritage. The village of Stemnitsa, with a pop- ulation of some 1,250, is located at an 1 4 elevation of 1,050 meters on Mt Klin- 2 3 itsa. Under Ottoman occupation and until around the turn of the 20th cen- Transport & basic info Where to stay Eating & shopping What to see tury it flourished as a jewelry and A car is virtually a must for a tour of In Stemnitsa: Country Club You are unlikely to find substandard The imposing landscape and stone commercial hub. The traditional ar- the area, otherwise one has to rely on (210.688.9249), Filoxeno Spiti cuisine in this part of the Peloponnese – buildings of Lagadia, on the way to chitectural style is frugal yet sturdy taxis for transportation. From the new (27950.29505). In Dimitsana: it ranges from the decent to the superb. Vytina; the Ladonas river dam and the and uses only stone and wood, even Corinth-Tripolis highway, take a left to Dimitsana (27950.31118/20), Xenon In Vytina, try Klimataria and Archontiko artificial lake frequented by amateur for five-story structures built on a Levidi-Vytina at the first exit after the Kazakou (27850.31660). In Vytina: tis Athinas for classic Greek and grilled anglers; the restored house of slope. The Folklore Museum is a must. Tripolis toll station. Vytina is 202 Villa Valos (27950.22210), Mainalo dishes. In Dimitsana, Kali Thea. In Theodoros Kolokotronis, a hero of the The Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi kilometers from Athens and the road (27950.22217). In Lagadia: Kentrikon Magouliana, non-vegetarians go to War of Independence, at Limpovisi; served as the first seat of the Pelo- is very good at least as far as Lagadia. (27950.43221), Lagadia Iosif’s, who, being a stock breeder/ the historic Philosophou Monastery, 8 ponnesian Senate when the War of In- If you go toward Mount Parnonas, the (27950.43202). In Kosmas: Maleatis butcher/ restaurateur, serves up km from Dimitsana – a religious dependence broke out in 1821. road becomes more winding. Apollon (210.561.2978), Katranis excellent meat dishes. Buy chestnuts education center during Ottoman Historic Dimitsana (pop. 650) is Tripolis can be reached from Athens by (210.923.7239). In Elliniko (11 km from and walnuts. In Vytina, you’ll find good times; the Aghios Ioannis Prodromos perched at an elevation of 850 meters bus (tel 210.513.2834) and train (1110). Stemnitsa): Elaion (27910.31400). In honey, feta cheese, trachana and Monastery between Dimitsana and overlooking the Lousios River valley. Local bus station: 2710.222.560; Magouliana: Kosmopoulos hylopittes. In Stemnitsa, try the diples Stemnitsa, built on the side of a Although architecturally just a notch tourist info: 2710.222.243; police: (27950.82350). In Valtetsiniko: (fried pastries). In Lagadia, you will find vertical bluff that takes at least 10 less impressive than Stemnitsa, it is 2710.222.519. Vasilikos (27950.82126). superb cured meat and preserves. minutes to reach on foot.