THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece MARCH 2009 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] OUR PRIMATE’S VIEW THE PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL SON

PAGES 4/22 - 5/23 STIMULUS

St Andrew’s PAYMENTS Theological College SCRIPTUREenters 24th LESSONS year of teaching will support jobs PAGE 7/25

Stimulus package handouts will minimise unemployment one-off training and learning bonus and education entry as the economy slows, Treasurer Wayne Swan says. payment is paid to eligible students. Parents, carers and farmers started receiving bonus The one-off bonus of up to $900 for taxpayers earning payments of up to $950 from Wednesday 11 March, as part less than $100,000 will flow from April. of a $42 billion fiscal stimulus package. In December, pensioners and low-income families were “Now these bonuses are a key part of our efforts to on the receiving end of cash payments from the support jobs by strengthening demand in the economy so government’s initial $10.4 billion stimulus package. that companies can afford to keep on and employ workers The coalition opposes the government’s second stimulus because there is sufficient demand in the economy,” Mr package. Swan told parliament during question time. Mr Swan quoted a speech by former treasurer Peter Treasury forecasts released last month predicted the Costello, delivered in 2001 during the last global economic unemployment rate would climb to seven per cent by mid- slowdown, to undermine the opposition’s position. 2010 as 300,000 jobs were lost. “Back in 2001 the Member for Higgins had ... a lot to say Scripture Lessons The jobless rate was 4.8 per cent in January. about strengthening demand in the economy,” Mr Swan said. Single-income families and households receiving Family “He said: ‘Insufficiently vigorous policies may result in a in N.S.W. Tax Benefit A will get a one-off payment of $900. deeper and longer global downturn’.” For more than 40 years the Greek Eligible drought-affected farmers will receive $950 Orthodox Archdiocese has provided hardship payments from March 24, the same time a $950 AAP scripture lessons in many State Schools to provide an opportunity for Greek Orthodox children to be- 25 MARCH come familiar with their Christian heritage. FEAST OF PAGE 19/37 THE ANNUNCIATION OF OUR MOST HOLY LADY, THE THEOTOKOS Kalavryta AND EVER VIRGIN This Peloponnesian town and province have overcome historical adversity to become MARY a popular winter destination. PAGE 9/27 PAGE 17/35 The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009 2/20 TO BHMA

This Day Deadline extended to 31 March 2009 IInn HHiissttoorryy Social Security Agreement between Australia and Greece

The Social Security Agreement be- the most effective way of dealing with tween Australia and Greece com- concerns. menced on 1 October 2008, and peo- “Centrelink officers, including Greek ple have been given an extended language speakers whenever possi- deadline till 31 March 2009 to respond ble, have been calling people who to their Centrelink letters. have yet to respond to their reminder Around 99% of the Greek community letters. in Australia have responded to Centre- “As the Member of Parliament in an link’s letters, but there are a very small electorate representing the largest number to be dealt with. number of people with a Greek back- “Centrelink is working with Greek ground in Australia, I welcome this community groups to develop appro- move and support the community dis- priate strategies to allay the fears of cussion process to assist people with the small percentage of people who their concerns,” Mr Georganas said. have not yet responded to Centrelink’s A number of steps have been taken letters,” Federal Member for Hind- to provide information, and to explain marsh, Mr Steve Georganas MP said. Centrelink’s requirements and proce- March 31, 1889 “Implementation of other social secu- dures. rity agreements has shown that this These include meetings with peak Mr Steve Georganas MP Eiffel Tower reaction is commonly experienced and community groups, community infor- that working with community groups to mation sessions around Australia, bilin- Australian Governments with the intro- opens develop specific targeted strategies is gual fact sheets and advertisements in duction of the new social security a- both English and Greek community greement. On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tow- newspapers and on community and Australia’s agreement with Greece er is dedicated in Paris in a ceremo- SBS radio. will provide improved access to age ny presided over by Gustave Eiffel, Report calls Around 50,000 residents of Australia pensions from both countries for peo- the tower's designer, and attended and Greece have improved access to ple who spent part of their adult lives by French Prime Minister Pierre the age pension from the Greek and working in Greece or living in Australia. Tirard, a handful of other dignitaries, for bigger ports and 200 construction workers. in Greece April 2, 2005 Many ports in the Aegean and Ionian Pope John seas are potentially dangerous for passenger ships as they are too nar- Paul II Dies row for dockings, according to a report On this day in 2005, John Paul II, made public recently by the Masters history's most well-traveled pope and Mates Union of the Greek Mer- and the first non-Italian to hold the chant Marine. position since the 16th century, dies In the report, experts note that many at his home in the Vatican. Six days port basins are too narrow to ade- later, two million people packed Vat- quately accommodate modern passen- ican City for his funeral, said to be ger ships. In addition, the piers of the biggest funeral in history. many island ports cannot accommo- date more than one passenger ship at April 7, 1994 a time and even smaller vessels, such as speedboats, often encounter prob- lems when trying to dock. Civil war erupts The report provides a detailed analy- sis of the shortcomings of each port. in Rwanda The central port of Patras, Greece’s main gateway to Western Europe, is On this day in 1994, Rwandan described as “too small for the vessels armed forces kill 10 Belgian peace- that depend upon it.” keeping officers in a successful ef- Experts note that an upgrade in infra- fort to discourage international inter- structure is vital to ensure security. As vention in the genocide that had be- for the popular holiday destination of gun only hours earlier. In approxi- Santorini, the union proposes the “relo- mately three months, the Hutu ex- cation of the island’s main port” to en- tremists who controlled Rwanda sure that cruise liners and passenger brutally murdered an estimated ships have ample space to dock, espe- 500,000 to 1 million innocent civilian cially during the busy summer months. Tutsis and moderate Hutus in the The main ports of Rafina, Rhodes, worst episode of ethnic genocide Kos and Igoumenitsa, in northwestern since World War II. Greece, are among the others men- tioned in the report as lacking ade- quate infrastructure. Last summer, union officials blamed inadequate infrastructure at ports for a spate of ferry collisions in the Aegean. MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/21 Editorial

them will be a “revolutionary act.” When the “asylum for ideas” means that legality Wasting words cannot be imposed on university campuses, then thugs will always find asylum. Unfortunately, there are thousands of kids out there who have not been taught By Paschos Mandravelis - Kathimerini to distinguish between concepts, to respect words. We have wasted words and allowed a generation to drown in the postmodern nebula that can be used to jus- Words are a society’s last resource. Even when everything else is lost, words tify almost anything, even the “destruction of the symbols of power,” that is, the are there to connect people; words are needed to find solutions, to describe murder of 21-year-olds in uniform. problems and make plans to emerge from every crisis. In Greece, this land of of endless contentiousness, words have been used up Soccer clubs hold key to hooliganism sooner than the paltry remnants of the public coffers. The law, for example, has become the resort of workers, farmers and anyone else with a complaint. The Greece’s soccer club owners have at times pressured the law enforcement au- fact that we have not yet been able to agree that “laws are passed by Parliament thorities to take the appropriate measures to prevent violence involving rival sup- and no one can break them with impunity” resulted in the events of December, porters or attacks on the actual teams and their officials. under the slogan “Law equals terror.” Their demands are hypocritical, to say the least. Soccer clubs should start by The fact that illegality has begun to be examined in the light (according to those severing their ties to the organized hooligan groups whose support they cultivate who break the law) of incentives has allowed certain youths to believe it is their and which they have repeatedly taken advantage of to serve their own interests. right to set fire to trains because they don’t like the faces of the people riding As recent events have made abundantly clear, the Greek police force is already them. When one generation carelessly exhausts the concept of legality in political overloaded trying to meet the already numerous tasks and challenges that it demonstrations, they shouldn’t be surprised when the next generation throws faces. The force cannot afford mobilizing extra staff to combat violence and hooli- stones at police stations. ganism across the country’s soccer stadiums. When burning banks is not seen as such a crime “because they rob us with For that reason, club owners should concentrate first on putting their own hous- high interest rates,” the next step is smashing the stores of the greengrocers be- es in order before turning to the state to ask for protection from hooligans. cause they “cheat on the scales.” After all, it is the teams themselves that are primarily responsible for eliminat- When throwing yogurt at professors is seen as a “symbolic protest,” beating ing violence both within and around soccer stadiums.

CHRISTIAN NURTURE: PARENTS’ RESPONSIBILITY

We know from developmental psychology that Parents must also spend time reading from the what a child feels, tastes, smells, hears and sees Holy Scriptures and other spiritually edifying books rapidly become a part of that child. The home envi- with their children. In this way young and old discov- ronment must mirror that of the Church. Educators er the ‘pearls’ that are hidden in the pages of the sa- speak of a socialisation model where they have cred writings of the Church and grow in the faith. By PETER found that the whole environment must always edu- As our Holy Church has entered the “arena of the MAVROMMATIS * cate the child and that learning time cannot be limited virtues” (called Great Lent) many people have begun to a specific time or place. A Christian socialisation fasting. It is interesting that children are keen to fast fra-mework would thus extend to the home where whenever they hear about fasting periods. Unfortu- the child would continue from where it left off in nately children cannot practice this virtue unless the “Listen, my son, to your father’s church or in a religion class at school. home environment promotes it. Ultimately, for this instruction and do not forsake It is therefore imperative that parents provide their reason or that, children are actively discouraged your mother’s teaching” (Prov. 1:8) children with a Christian environment which is cen- from fasting by parents who themselves do not fast. tred around the Church. Parents must encourage It is not only fasting that is discouraged by many The motto on this year’s Saint Spyridon Parish Cal- their children to attend church services so that they parents. Unfortunately parents sometimes would endar “Keeping the Orthodox Tradition alive in our can “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Ps 33:9). Of rather their children ‘succeed’ in secular pursuits to home” reminds us of our responsibilities as parents course, this would mean that we as parents need to the detriment of their spiritual needs, sacrificing on for the Christian nurture and education of our chil- motivate ourselves to attend the Divine Services reg- the altar of contemporary relativity. The truth is how- dren. In the last edition of The Vema I wrote, some ularly! Parents would then be in a position to discuss ever, that Christian education and experience do not would argue critically, about the effort or lack thereof these Services and their meanings with their children rob from them any knowledge of secular disciplines of some families in the fulfilment of this duty. and practice virtue together as young and old pre- and will not stop them achieving their goals, as some The Church has fulfilled her role in Christian nur- pare for them in the Orthodox way. I cannot speak would argue, but rather complement and deepen ture but there must be a seamless integration be- enough of the value of Sunday School or κατηχητικό their knowledge and understanding of every aspect tween the Church and the home. There can be no for children. I will simply remind parents that by the of life. There is no point in being a doctor without separation of word and practice otherwise there can time this article goes to press, your parish’s Sunday compassion; you cannot know economics and be a be no edification, let alone empowerment to cope School lessons would have begun providing your charlatan; you cannot read law and practice injus- with life’s challenges. Casual and occasional refer- children with an opportunity to learn and play in a tices. Ultimately, the Christian education of children ences to our Faith and Tradition - unfortunately the Christian setting with the love of God and neighbour liberates and empowers them to know, discern and common practice among many families today - high- at the heart of every lesson. live fully! light the discrepancies between the message of Home life must also reflect Church life. The whole Baptism is not the end of our responsibility as par- Christ and His Holy Church and the practice in our family ought to spend some moments together in ents. When we were baptised we received a Cross lives. prayer until children are mature or old enough to which we wear above our heart. As the priest gave Children learn best through imitation and osmosis pray alone, and a small area can be set aside for us this Cross he uttered the words of Jesus who (absorption) therefore example is necessary. Our icons where all can pray and meditate on the works said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him de- everyday practice and responses to any situation are of the Lord (see Ps 76:13, Ps 118:15). This ‘refuge’ ny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me” carefully viewed, processed and recorded by chil- from “all earthly cares” will help the child build a re- (Matt 16:24). A result of our going after God is ‘fol- dren who identify these as the benchmarks which lationship with God. lowing’ and this following is the fulfilment of our ob- they think is normal practice. The lighting of the oil lamp, the καντήλι, is also an ligations as Christians in our daily lives. As parents, How then can one nurture children in a Christian opportunity to involve children in the unceasing our obligations are the Christian nurture and educa- sense? The answer is quite simple. First and fore- prayer and offering of the Church and what at first tion of our children. We are not fulfilling our role as most we ourselves must be firm in our faith so that will be done to fulfil the curiosity of the young child Christians or as parents if we fail to address the we can provide a Christian environment in which our will over time become a symbol of its love for God. spiritual needs of our children; as the late theologian children can grow spiritually as well and physically, The same can be said of the offering of incense, the John Boojamra repeatedly said “there is no partial socially and emotionally. Ultimately, the home, for lighting of the θυμιατό, which will stimulate the sens- membership in the Church, only full membership.” centuries the ‘little church’ must stimulate all the es of the child and will help it visualise prayers ris- * Peter Mavrommatis is a teacher of Orthodox Studies senses of the child, just like the Church stimulates the ing to God (Ps 140:2), is also something that ought to and Personal Development senses of all her children through her services. be done regularly in prayer. at St Spyridon College Senior School Sydney. 4/22 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009 Our Primate’s View

Sisters and Brothers, The father, then, instead of saying to him “you’re not going anywhere; the time has not come yet, you are im- In accordance with the order of Feast Days for the mature”, chooses to honour the freedom that every person Ecclesiastical Year as designated by the Church Fathers is entitled to. For this reason, although he is younger, he (who decreed wisely on all matters!), the Sunday of the gives him what he asks for! Prodigal Son has come upon us once again, with its two ‘Only God knows’ with what pain a father’s heart ‘Readings’ which are so characteristic, so educational and watches his child depart - whatever child that might be! so necessary for every moment of life, not just for annual usage. I will never forget my Mother’s tears when I was The Parable of the Prodigal Son on the one departing from Rethymno for Hania on the island of Crete in hand (Lk. 15:11-32), and the Epistle of St Paul to the He- Greece (3½ hours by car in those days. It was as if I was brews on the other (7:7-17), are two readings which we actually ‘migrating’ - from Rethymno to Hania. Today it is just should visit at least once a week. Because this is not a a 25-minute drive!). And I was only leaving to attend School. straightforward and complete story that begins and To enrol at the Ecclesiastical Seminary of Crete. finishes. My mother shed ‘black tears’ for a whole week be- fore I left. She would look towards the mountains and say Just as man is not one singular adventure, nor just “there, behind them, is where you are going...”! one singular sin, in the same way the narrative of the How much more dramatic, of course, it is when a Prodigal Son is comprised of many stories. mindless child leaves home, taking whatever it takes with it. The father is one scenario. And, crucially, going wherever it might imagine! The elder son is another. But you have heard the narrative of the Parable. I The younger son another. won’t repeat it. Partying here, spending there, the younger son en- But at every moment of our lives we are and we gaged in charlatanism, tramping and prodigality (from become something else. Each one of us! where the adjective ‘Prodigal’ is derived!). This is where he saw so many things. And what Medical science informs us that the cells of the hu- didn’t he see! He saw people circulating; others happy, oth- man body continually change: They age, they are re- ers sad and others indifferent. placed and they are rejuvenated. Therefore, man is not something monolithic: It is By ARCHBISHOP not as though he became good and will die good. Or that he STYLIANOS became mindless and will die mindless. It does not work THE PARABLE OF THE OF AUSTRALIA like that in human life. Because such presumptions do not exist in the Providence of God, in His love for man, in His PRODIGAL SON wisdom, in His all-powerfulness.

He has given us so many possibilities, yet He has also left open so many opportunities for good and bad (as many as the hairs on our head!). Just the thought of it is Himself a stranger, amongst other strangers. But enough to send us into a spin! when his money ran out, he “began to be in want!”. In other words, whatever ‘major’ thing I achieve He had to go and work. This son of a Nobleman might in the next moment be demolished, spoiled, forgotten, went to a farm as a slave! He watched the swine eating lo- not counting for much in the final result. custs, the pea pods with which he also tried to satisfy his Indeed, whatever major thing we achieve is capa- hunger! ble at some time of turning out to be not merely minor, but There, for the first time, he seriously remembered bitter and harmful. Yet, at the same time, whatever mis- who he was - from whence he came, whose son he was, take or sin we commit might just turn out to be for us a what he forsook, what he neglected, what he betrayed. ‘stepping stone’ for something higher, if it becomes a cause At that point he thought to himself: The employees for reflection and repentance. of my father (the servants who are paid every day) wallow “And when he came to himself...” (i.e. come to in everything. “And I perish in hunger”. And I am dying of your senses, as our people say, reclaim your sanity, in order starvation! to realize who you were!). So, he took the decision: “I will return, I will see him Who comes into this world and God does not allow again, he won’t have changed. Such a father could not have him to develop all the possibilities which He has given changed”! him? God has never ‘blocked’ anyone’s path. And in the Parable of the Prodigal Son, if we Observe how the younger, prodigal son, deep- observe it from the outset, the father deals with his two down, believed. sons ‘in his own way’. I will say to him: “Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you”. I have embittered both God Then comes the younger son: We should have ex- and yourself. Right before your eyes I committed such fool- pected that he would be the more reserved, the more re- ish deeds. strained, the more timid. He would never dare to leave the Forgive me. And “receive me as one of your shelter of his Father! hired servants”. And yet, although that is what we expected, the ex- Forgive me. Receive me back so that I might fit into act opposite occurs. He comes and says “Give me my your home again. (The Greek word for ‘forgiveness’, share of the property...”. Give me my ‘cut’, that which be- ‘συγχωρώ’ - ‘syn-horo’, means exactly that. To ‘fit in togeth- longs to me. (Since when does it belong to you, friend? When er’ with the others, in the same place). did you create it? When did you labour for it? You found it all “Receive me as one of your hired servants”. there when you were born. The house, the property, your Take me back, not as your son. I don’t dare ask for that. I father’s honour, the paternal shelter and protection! Did don’t deserve to ask for that. you create all of that?) He who once said he is entitled to his “share of the property” now does not dare ask even for his name, even The Father should be the one who demonstrates for his father’s abiding paternity. prudence, who lays down the law, who provides security. For a single moment he allows his soul to ‘waver’. (Should I Observe how the same person changed from one give him his share now, that which I would have given him, phase to the other. or should I not?) These secret hesitations and doubts are not men- And the father himself, though embittered and hurt tioned in the Parable. And they are not mentioned because in the beginning, now does not know how to show his joy. this parable refers to God Himself. And God of course He opens his embraceful arms and runs. He runs knows what He is doing at every moment. He has no need ahead first, to welcome him, to kiss him. to ‘reconsider’, to ‘regret’. And you recall what directions he gave: He called for the fatted calf to be killed. He clothed him with a regal Nonetheless, let us not forget that the Parable is robe. He forgave him. ‘ANTHROPOMORPHIC’ - portrayed in human terms. MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/23

CONT. FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Debt-ridden Olympic Airlines Observe how the same person changed from one phase to the other. to go private under Marfin deal And the father himself, though embittered and hurt in the beginning, now does not know how to show his joy. After several failed attempts, nance, repair and overhaul assets. He opens his embraceful arms and runs. He runs ahead first, to welcome him, to kiss him. Greece's debt-ridden national air On the same day, global ground And you recall what directions he gave: He called for the fatted calf to be killed. He carrier, Olympic Airlines, is heading handling firm Swissport offered 44.8 clothed him with a regal robe. He forgave him. back into private control under a million euros ($A88 million) for However, whilst the celebrations for his return had commenced, so many others were deal with Marfin Investment Group Olympic's ground handling assets. changing! And it was the elder son who changed most of all. He who up till that hour was the mod- (MIG). Three decades after it bought The offers exactly matched the est, prudent son who had never ‘abandoned’ the paternal home. the company from legendary Greek minimum valuation of Olympic's as- tycoon Aristotle Onassis, the Greek sets by the Greek government's in- Do you see how a person changes? We are like the heliotrope. The flower that leans to- state is selling it for a combined dependent advisers. wards the direction of the sun. 177.2 million euros ($A350 million), The Greek state also expects to We, in this world, do not lean towards the ‘Sun of Righteousness’ who is Christ. That is, Development Minister Costas Hatzi- recoup another 70 million euros God. dakis said. ($A138 million) set aside to create Unfortunately we lean as the butterfly does towards the ‘light’, and is scorched. "Negotiations with Marfin Invest- Pantheon, a temporary holding com- We lean towards anything that shines and appears as gold, though it be just tin! ment Group to buy out the air oper- pany for Olympic. We forget that in this world nothing should be presumed as ‘honourable’ or ‘dishon- ations of Olympic Airlines have suc- If successful, Olympic's acquisition ourable’. Everything is honourable and everything can become dishonourable. It depends ceeded," Hatzidakis said. will enhance MIG's collection of on whether a person utilizes his brains as meant by God: to function in a God-like manner "The outcome of these negotia- some of the biggest household (as is fitting for God!). tions will be approved by the inter- names on the Greek market. ministerial commission on privatisa- MIG already controls Greece's So the virtuous one changed. The prudent one changed. As the elder son (the presbyter) was returning from the fields, he heard the music, the celebrations, the revelry. “What’s go- tions", subject to a green light from main dairy and food group, Vivartia, ing on”, he asks. “What has happened”? the European Commission, which and dominant ferry operator Attica. - Your brother who was dead has returned! He was lost and he is found! enforces EU competition law. It also has stakes in the health, - “Oh, is that so now”! MIG submitted a 45.7-million-euro tourism, real estate and information He approaches and gives his father a ‘dressing down’, as if he were God Himself judg- ($A90 million) bid on February 13 to technology sectors. ing a sinner! acquire the flight operations of MIG is listed on the Athens stock Think about these things! Olympic Airlines soon after the fail- exchange, with 58 per cent of its That is why I said we should read this Parable at least once a week, if possible. ure of an earlier attempt by the gov- share capital held by Greek strate- ernment to find a buyer. gic investors. International investors The father listened to him. He didn’t ‘rouse’ on him. He didn’t turn him away. He just lis- Greece's largest buyout fund, hold another 24 per cent and Dubai tened: MIG, also bid 16.7 million euros Group owns the remaining 18 per “For so many years I worked for you from morning till night. And I would come and you ($A33 million) for Olympic's mainte- cent. never gave me a fatted calf to eat with my friends. And now that he has come here, he who devoured your fortune on harlots, you hastened to sacrifice everything for him!” The ‘poor’ father. Let us say here (in inverted commas!) ‘poor’ God. What more must ‘poor’

God be ‘compelled’ to listen to yet! Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia GREEK WELFARE CENTRE As for us, we continue in our own world: You did such and such to him. You did such and 378A KING ST, NEWTOWN, NSW 2042 ȉel:9516 - 2188 Fax:9516 - 3177 such to the other. Why didn’t you do something for me? Why didn’t you give me such and Email: [email protected] such? We determine the measure! Instead of saying, “It is You who gave the Law. It is You who have given life. It is You who have given everything. It is You who govern all things”. Marriage Preparation Seminars

Instead of us, then, saying to God “Your will be done” (as did the Only-Begotten Son, God Himself who became Man), we become a lawless law, an unjust law, a poisonous law. And we insult and blaspheme God! Yet God is not so aggravated as to forget us or to ‘insult’ us derogatively (even though God does not ‘insult derogatively’!). Whatever He created is His. It is precious to Him. Whatever contains His image is He Himself. That is why He respects it, He aches for it and He honours it. And He wants to save all of us - men and women, sinners and lesser sinners, wise and Hi everyone, unwise (we are all unwise before the Wisdom of God!). My child, he says to him, why are you complaining and you don’t come to delight with Are you engaged or thinking about marrying? Why not come to our free Marriage us? You, also, should be glad and jubilant that your brother “was dead and has come Preparation Seminars which are on 3 times a year. These seminars have been happening back to life, was lost and is found”. He was dead and came back to life. He was lost for the past 20 years and are arranged by the Greek Welfare Centre with the blessing (we know not where) and has been found. You should have been glad. That is how the com- of his Eminence our Archbishop. plaint of the Father concludes. We have had very positive feedback from young couples that have attended, for they have found the seminars very useful and informative. However, the most tragic lesson that we take from the Parable of the Prodigal Son is the You are invited to come and meet other couples and hear from our professional speakers other aspects of marriage over a cup of tea or coffee. following truth regarding human egotism: We would love to see you there. The more ‘leniently’ any instruction, any lesson is enounced, the more deeply it ‘cultivates’ and ‘alters’ the recipient, whoever he might be. Our first seminar is on Monday 6th April 2009 & Tuesday 7th April 2009

In order to conclude the essentially inexhaustible analysis of the Parable of the Prodigal Topics Covered Include: Son, we have left as a final observation, a tragic truth which we have discerned from years ago. The Theology of Marriage The Role of the Priest in an Orthodox Marriage It concerns the most frightening cause and effect which threatens the arrogant per- Roles within a Marriage son, when his secret self-indulgence thirsts for self-justification (!), leading him to the A Matter of Law point where he commits (before the All-knowing God!) exactly the same sin for which he Medical Aspects rejects and condemns his fellow human. Communication He censures him as prodigally abandoning the paternal home and, aggravated by this, Money Matters he himself refuses to enter again into the common home! “He was angry and would not go VENUE: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Reception Hall in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him” (Lk. 15:28). 242 Cleveland Street, Redfern

May God not allow us to reach such blindness, accusing others (of the same things), in- stead of ourselves! If you wish to participate in these Seminars please contact either your Parish Priest with Amen! your email details or Mary Demos at the Greek Welfare Centre on 029516 9516 - 2188 2188 Translation by FSS The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009 6/24 TO BHMA

The celebration of Greek Independence All true and faithful Hellenes living in their occupied Day on March 25 draws inspiration from MARCH 25 homeland reacted to the Turkish oppression and re- one of the holiest days for Greek Orthodox sisted the attempts to deprive the Greeks of their Christians, the Annunciation of the Theo- heritage, their freedom and their religion. During the dark years of the Ottoman occupation, thousands tokos. were killed and tortured for attending church or This is the day that the Archangel Gabriel an- CELEBRATION teaching their children culture, history and language. It nounced to Mary that she would bear a child. Bishop was the Greek Orthodox Church that helped to retain Germanos of Patras seized the opportunity by raising their very identity by the institution of Κρυφά Σχολιά the banner of revolution, in an act of defiance against (Hidden Schools). the Turks and marked the beginning of the War of In- OF GREEK For eight years the fighting ensued, until 1829, dependence. when the Sultan Mahmud II, facing Russian troops at Cries of Ζήτω η Ελλάς and Ελευθερία ή Θάνατος can the gates of Constantinople, accepted Greek inde- still be heard today. These freedom fighters of INDEPENDENCE pendence with the Treaty of Andrianople. Greece sacrificed much for their country. Kolokotron- is, Nikitaras, Karaiskakis, Bouboulina, and Botsaris Greek Flag are some of the heroes of the revolution. The flag of Greece has not changed since the rev- The struggle for independence was supported DAY olution against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. abroad by intellectuals of the day. In addition to the The white cross in the upper left hand corner cov- Secret Society of Friends (Φιλική Εταιρία) and the Sa- ering one fourth of the flag signifies the important cred Band (Ιερός Λόχος) prominent world figures in- role of the Greek Orthodox Church in the formation of cluding Lord Byron of England, Daniel Webster and Dr. the Greeks, The War of Independence began in 1821 the Hellenic Nation. The blue and white alternating Samuel Gridly Howe of the United States raised the rising up against 400 years of occupation and op- stripes represent the sea and the relentless waves interest level among Europeans and Americans. pression by the Ottoman Turks. The origin of the of the Aegean. After centuries of unsuccessful uprisings and fail- Turkish occupation began in 1453 with the fall of ure of the Ottoman Empire to assimilate and convert Constantinople. Source: The Merrimack Journal

Some key figures of the revolt In 1821, the Greeks, after nearly 400 years of two famous victories at Arachova and Distomo. He the French Admiral de Rigny’s frigate, where he slavery under the Ottomans decided to take up the was killed in a clash with the Turks at Faliro. was received by the admiral. At the battle of Faliron arms and fight for their freedom. The 25th March Karaiskakis is considered the second most impor- on the 5th February, 1827, Makriyannis commanded 1821 marks the beginning of the Greek revolution tant military figure of the revolution, after Kolokotro- the corps of Athenians, under the orders of General and the 22nd March 1829 the day of the creation of nis. Gordon. He distinguished himself again and again in the modern Greek state. Below some of the key fig- the defence of his position, by bravery in number of ures of that revolt are presented. Constantinos Kanaris (1793 - 1877) minor engagements. He came from the island Theodoros Kolokotronis (1770 - 1834) of Psara. He blew up the Manto Mavrogenous He came from a family of Turkish armada at Chios Amongst the heroines of kleftes and escaped to Za- and at Tenedos and other the Greek revolution was kynthos where he served in Turkish ships at Mytilene Manto Mavrogenous. She the English Army. He re- and Samos (1824). He at- was educated at a college turned to Peloponnesos on tempted to burn the Turkish in Triestio and spoke Italian the eve of the revolution ships at the port of Alexan- and Turkish. She studied an- and due to his military ex- dria in order to destroy cient Greek philosophy and perience and knowledge Mehmet Ali’s preparations history. In 1809 her family soon became the leading against Greece and failed only due to the fact that returned to Mykonos, the is- figure in organising the at the time the wind was blowing from the opposite land of their origin. She learned with excitement Greek fighters. He lead the siege of Tripolis and its direction. He became one of the important naval from her father that the Philiki Etairia was preparing surrender marked the first success of the Greek figures of the revolution. With the liberation of the Greek revolution. When the news arrived that revolution. The following year (1822) with his Greece he became involved in politics opposing the struggle for freedom began, Manto invited the courage, determination, patience and military acu- king Othon. He served several times as a minister leaders of Mykonos to a meeting and persuaded men defeated the army of Dramalis. He was impris- and became prime minister. He was brave, coura- them to join the revolution. oned by his political opponents but was freed when geous and modest. Ibrahim invaded Greece, against whom Kolokotron- Papaflesas or Gregorios Dikaios is applied guerrilla tactics and was able to inflict Makriyannis Papaflesas was born at major blows to his army. Kolokotronis is considered General Makriyannis was Messinia in 1788. In his the most important figure of the Greek revolution. born at Lidoriki, in Eastern teens he became a monk. Greece. When in June 1825, The Turks, knowing his rev- Georgios Karaiskakis (1782 - 1827) Ibrahim Pasha attacked the olutionary character forced He grew up in poverty mills of Argos with a force him to leave Greece. At and was forced to the of 4,000 foot-soldiers and Constantinople, where he mountains as kleftis. He 600 cavalrymen from his went, became one of the was one of the first to take regular army, Mαkriyannis, key members of “Filiki Etai- part in the Greek revolution together with Ypsilantis, ria”. Under Ypsilantis orders and his military genius be- Mavromichalis and 300 he returned to Peloponne-sos and started preach- came apparent during the men, defended the position, which commands the ing the ideal of freedom, preparing so the people last years of the struggle. approaches to Naples of Romania. They had al- for the revolution. He was a key figure of the Greek He was appointed by the ready repulsed four fierce attacks by Ibrahim when, Revolution. When in 1825 Ibrahim landed with thou- first Greek government as towards evening, they were reinforced by a detach- sands of Turkish army in Peloponnesos, Papaflesas chief marshal of Eastern ment of the first regular Greek regiment. Its arrival leading 2000 men marched against him. During the Greece and made Elefsina his headquarters. Fol- decided the outcome of the battle and the Turko- battle which took place at a place called Maniaki, on lowing a clash with the Turks at Haidari, he was Egyptian forces retreated in great disarray, with 20 May 1825, Ibrahim with 6000 Turks attacked and planning to cut off Kioutachis supplies, during the heavy casualties. The gallant Makriyannis, who was killed 600 Greeks and their leader Papaflesas, who siege of the Acropolis. His initial failures followed gravely wounded in the fighting, was invited aboard fought bravely to the bitter end. MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/25

ST ANDREW’S THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE ENTERS 24th YEAR OF TEACHING

The Dean, His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, during his speech after the Doxology Service in His Eminence and His Grace Bishop Seraphim of Apollonia, with the three first-year students, the College Chapel of St John the Evangelist and Theologian Deacon Nectarios Joannou, Vasilios Le Couilliard and Efstratios Makris

Thursday 19th February marked the official municate to others the mystery that the invisible God giou, who serves as Parish Priest at the Church of St opening of the academic year at St Andrew’s became tangible, that He died and was resurrected, Anna, Gold Coast. and that He is the One who gives us courage to contin- The customary group photograph in the courtyard of Greek Orthodox Theological College in Syd- ue in this life... the College was followed by a luncheon generously ney. For the 24th consecutive year, the tra- “This College still has a long way to go in order to be prepared by the tireless ladies’ auxiliary of the Archdio- ditional Doxology Service was celebrated in in a position to respond to the needs of the Church in cese. the College Chapel of St John the Evangelist Australia, and towards our promise to God to be faithful St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College is a and active - not active in the sense of mere action in tertiary institution established in 1986 by the Greek Or- and Theologian by the Dean, His Eminence the world - but active in doing works of repentance, thodox Church offering undergraduate and postgradu- Archbishop Stylianos of Australia, among humble and effective, to alleviate human pain wherever ate degrees fully accredited by the NSW Department of Faculty members, staff, alumni, students it exists.” Education and Training and equivalent to those of Aus- and guests. His Eminence prayed that the academic year would tralian universities. These degrees have international be blessed from above, and thanked everyone for their validity. They focus on Orthodox Theology and its relat- After welcoming everyone His Eminence reflected readiness to contribute in whatever way they could to ed subject areas such as Biblical Studies, Church Histo- briefly on the task of theology within the Church and the mission of the Church, of Orthodox Tradition, and of ry, Liturgical Studies, Patristic Studies, Orthodox Art and College: the College, which he termed a small “place of faith.” Architecture as well as Pastoral Education. They can “We try to approach the ‘mystery’ [of theology], some- The Dean also warmly welcomed the three first-year lead to priesthood within the Orthodox Church. They thing which is only directed from above; which pro- students: Deacon Nectarios Joannou (Sydney), Vasilios can also be a pathway for further university studies ceeds in a way that we cannot describe or follow sys- Le Couilliard (Melbourne) and Efstratios Makris (Mel- leading to careers such as teaching and social work. tematically; which cannot be exhausted or reduced by bourne). He further welcomed Mrs Mary Hamer and They are also particularly useful for enriching one’s logic or human thoughts. Brains and feelings alone are Mrs Amelia Katsogiannis, Junior School and Senior own Orthodox Christian faith. not enough. The whole conscience, the whole person, School Principals respectively of St Spyridon College, a- The College currently serves twelve seminarian stu- [must be] captivated by God’s grace. This mystery does long with Mr Peter Mavrommatis (graduate of the The- dents as well as fifteen students engaged in graduate- not endure research; you cannot research the mystery. ological College and teacher of Orthodox Studies) and level and elective theological studies. For more informa- Of course we research certain facts and data, but we students from St Spyridon College. He praised the long- tion about Orthodox Christian theological education know that we are always helpless in the hands of the standing contribution of Dr John Lee and Dr Guy Free- please visit the College’s website (www.sagotc.edu.au). living, eternal God... land, and indeed thanked all the Faculty and staff for “It is an audacity to say that we become ‘theologians’. their labours. His Eminence further acknowledged the T. Kalogerakis Theologians are only those chosen from above. We are presence of College graduate, Father Romanos Ster- Registrar only theologising, that is, trying to do theology; to com- Memorable moments in Athens

On our return to Ireland after a mem- If only countries whose governments the former Greek president Kostis Ste- And what organisation to enable all orable ten days in your fascinating city are bitterly opposed could see how fanopoulos was in the audience. Sec- this to happen! From arrival to depar- [Athens] the words of Pericles strike a their student representatives debate, ondly, no less privileged was I to judge ture we were all looked after splendid- chord, “Numberless are the chances to relate and respect each other, this a superb debate between Australia and ly. Everything moved efficiently, impec- which the life of man is subject.” Our world of ours would be such a better Singapore in the magnificent debating cably and seamlessly. If there is a merit debating team have been fortunate to place. chamber of the Old Parliament building. system in Greece, then convenor Effie participate in the 21st World Schools Two memories, for me, stand out A superb New Zealand team went on Giannakouri and her brilliant team de- Debating Final, in Athens in mid-Febru- above many others. Firstly, I was privi- to defeat England in the Grand Final but serve the highest honours. ary, interacting, by chance, with more leged to be one of eight who read from each and every student was a winner, Dick Wafer, Irish Schools Debating than 300 students from 39 countries the Funeral Oration of Pericles at the returning home with positive life- Council chairman worldwide. impressive opening ceremony when changing lessons learned. Ireland MARCH 2009 8/26 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Windows to Orthodoxy The ecclesial Synaxis Epitome of a Learning Society (Part 3)

Revd Dr Doru Costache* failed for imprudently taking a different path than that of porated into the ‘holy, catholic and apostolic Church’ divine wisdom, we, God’s people, know that only by ac- (note that catholicity means here fullness and not a cer- Many contemporaries from outside the Church, and knowledging the revelation of the truth from above can tain Christian denomination) only after being solidly es- (unfortunately) many from within, claim that they cannot we reach what was promised to us from the foundation tablished through teaching/learning on the safe ‘understand’ and ‘taste’ the Divine Liturgy given its intri- of the world (cf. Matthew 25:34). In light of this text, it grounds of ecclesial phronema or mindset, thus experi- cate and highly symbolic structure. And indeed, there is becomes obvious that to be an Orthodox and inherit the encing the spiritual awakening (signified by the ‘sobri- something that keeps them away from the holy synaxis: blessings takes the effort of patiently learning the di- ety/vigilance (νήψιν ψυχής) of the soul’ referred to in it is the lack of sensibility for existential symbols and vine and enlightening truth, as delivered, proclaimed the prayer after the consecration of the holy gifts). the absence of any serious ideal of personal renewal and interpreted within and through the holy synaxis or that characterises contemporary culture. Living on the gathering. Within the part of the Divine Liturgy reserved for the surface and ignoring the challenges of the Gospel, pre- Subsequently, the prayer of the Trisagion (thrice-holy) faithful, after the catechumens leave the worshipping vents people from navigating through the dazzling spi- hymn acknowledges God as the one who gives ‘wis- community, the second prayer for the believers in the rals leading to the inner abysses of personal life, or the dom and understanding (σοφίαν και σύνεσιν) to those order of St John Chrysostom reads: ‘Grant also to those newness of life. I know ignorance is bliss (the terrible who ask’ or as the source of true knowledge. By con- who pray with us, O God, progress in life (προκοπήν motto of our times), yet are people to any extent aware trast to the fallen world, which promotes the arrogant βίου) and faith (πίστεως) and spiritual understanding of humanity’s celestial destination? And if not, how can claim of self-enlightenment and thoroughly ignores God, (συνέσεως πνευματικής)’. The message is clear: within we bring our lives to fulfilment? No wonder, therefore, God’s people are acutely conscious that humanity the holy synaxis, notwithstanding its holistic character - that many cannot grasp and taste the meaning of our needs true spiritual guidance in order to escape from given that it encompasses both the educational aspect transformative mysteries, which are existential in na- the misty labyrinth of confusion and pointlessness. and the experiential, or existential, one - the process of ture and remote from today’s superficiality... Therefore, the Church takes the humble approach - en- teaching/learning is ongoing. None among the believers Nevertheless, beyond this contemporary indisposition suring its successful journey towards the fullness of life can claim he or she knows everything or discerns all towards the message of personal transformation - and asks for guidance towards discernment (on the the nuances, ramifications and implications of the ec- (μετάνοια), there is no sealed lid placed over the teach- footsteps of the famous Psalm 118 of the Septuagint), clesial faith and life. And since the προκοπή asked from ing of the Divine Liturgy; everything can be learnt, in- whose witnesses are the Orthodox bishops faithful to God means at the same time progress and perfection, cluding the existential symbols within the rite of the holy tradition, rightly teaching the word of God’s truth (των this further implies that through the liturgy we are con- synaxis. As an educational framework - expression of a ορθοτομούντων τον λόγον της σης αληθείας). stantly challenged to grow spiritually towards a state of learning society - the liturgy offers an inbuilt hermeneu- The holy synaxis in its entirety echoes this request for maturity that still eludes us. Therefore, God’s people tical ‘mechanism’ that guides those willing to learn to- illumination, driving the believers to learn through the learn to travel within the truth (the ecclesial phronema) wards the actual meaning and purpose of the move- rites, step by step, the alphabet of spiritual life. Charac- and towards the fullness of divine truth (‘the unity of ments, gestures and words embedded in the making of teristically, by the end of the Divine Liturgy, God’s peo- faith’, asked for immediately before the prayer ‘Our Fa- the liturgical order. Perhaps less visible, this ‘mecha- ple acknowledge: ‘We have seen the true light (είδομεν ther’), as a key to unlock the garden of delights, which nism’ can nonetheless be found in the prayers recited, το φως το αληθινόν), we have received the heavenly is the newness of life and the heavenly kingdom. mostly silently, by the bishop/presbyter. In the follow- Spirit (ελάβομεν Πνεύμα επουράνιον), we have found The attainment through teaching/learning of wisdom ing, I will explore the most relevant passages from var- the true faith (εύρομεν πίστιν αληθή), worshipping or the ecclesial phronema (whose paragon remains the ious prayers within the order of the Divine Liturgy as- (προσκυνούντες) the undivided Trinity, which has saved Symbol of Faith, discussed last time, together with the cribed to St John Chrysostom. These prayers are locat- us’. It is about more than an intellectual quest for truth. anamnesis of the anaphora, or the offering prayer), ed mainly (yet not exclusively) in the first part of the or- The ecclesial principles of learning are very different represents however not just a personal benefit for the der, within the so-called ‘liturgy of the catechumens’ or from their secular counterparts; the divine truth and believers but also a duty and a task appointed to God’s ‘liturgy of the Word’, which has a very strong education- wisdom or the true light - transcending the habitual people as a whole. Recalling God’s mercy bestowed al character (obvious in the Christological hymn ‘Only- functions of cognition - are sought after and discovered upon his people and learning the ways of divine wis- begotten’, the procession of the Gospel, the biblical (εύρομεν) only by taking the humble path of awe and dom, the faithful are supposed to witness these to the readings and the sermon). doxology (προσκυνούντες); only those truthful to God society at large, so that all are given a chance for a The first explicit occurrence of the catechetical or ed- receive (ελάβομεν) the Spirit, who simultaneously be- change of life. This aspect is clearly pointed out by the ucational theme is in the prayer of the third antiphon. stows upon them wisdom, spiritual insight and the full- bishop/presbyter when reciting, silently, the penitential The end of it reads: ‘fulfil now the petitions of your ser- ness of life. Psalm 50 (while incensing): ‘I will teach transgressors y- vants for their benefit, granting us the knowledge of This alphabet of spiritual life is discerned mainly our ways, and the ungodly will return to you’. Likewise, your truth (την επίγνωσιν της σης αληθείας) in the pres- through the scriptural readings, accompanied by a it features as a commitment of the congregation, ent age, and in the age to come eternal life’. Making al- prayer with which I shall deal, God willing, next time. through a dialogue between the celebrant and commu- lusion to the promises of the Lord that he will be with For now, let us pursue our exploration of the liturgical nity. The bishop/presbyter exhorts: ‘Let us go forth in the two or three gathered in his name (see Matthew order. The next relevant moment to our topic is that of peace’, and God’s people reply: ‘In the name of the 8:20), and that our requests will be granted (see Mark the litany for the catechumens (in the congregations Lord’. These words do not announce the end of the holy 11:24), the prayer voices the most arduous desire of were they exist). The believers are exhorted by the synaxis; they actually reflect the missionary character God’s people: to inherit the eternal life or to attain the presbyter/deacon to pray for those who undergo the of the Church. More specifically, after receiving wisdom fullness of life. The sentence quoted above shows, period of catechetical instruction, so that God himself from above (through the scriptural readings) and be- however, the Church’s awareness that there is a logi- ‘may teach (κατηχήση) them the word of truth (τον coming partakers of the divine life (through holy com- cal, and chronological, succession between knowledge λόγον της αληθείας)’ and ‘reveal (αποκαλύψη) to them munion), we go back into the world as bearers of of truth and the inheritance yearned for. the Gospel of righteousness (το Ευαγγέλιον της δι- peace - a mystical name of Christ - with the purpose of In this point, perhaps the text alludes to Genesis καιοσύνης)’. Here, again, recurs the major theme of the proclaiming this wisdom, this peace and this new life to (chapter 2) narrative of the two paradisiacal trees, at liturgy, that of God’s people being theodidaktos, or the world. The learning community becomes a teaching the same time echoing its canonical interpretation. Ac- taught-by-God, and thus secure on the path toward community, for the life of the world. cording to this interpretation, the tree of life would have perfection. All the above cannot be learnt at once or without the been accessible only through the exercise of right dis- The lines of the litany echo St Paul’s frequent warning right propensity to approach the Divine Liturgy with pa- cernment upon the ambiguous fruit of knowledge of that the Gospel preached in the Church is not of human tience and humility. But for those who dare to know, good and evil; in other words, only if the characters in origin, coming from God (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:23; Gala- nothing will prevent them from finding the rhythms of the narrative had passed the test of wisdom, choosing tians 1:12), apparently alluding anew to the failure of spiritual life as experienced through the holy synaxis. the spiritual path, would they have been granted the Adam and Eve who abandoned the divine wisdom. One fullness of life. This is precisely the meaning of the re- way or the other, teaching/learning is an essential part * Revd Dr Doru Costache lectures in Patristics at St Andrew’s quest formulated by the prayer: if Adam and Eve have of Christian becoming. The catechumens will be incor- Theological College, Sydney MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/27 Windows to Orthodoxy

MARCH 25 FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIATION OF OUR MOST HOLY LADY, THE THEOTOKOS AND EVER VIRGIN MARY

The Feast of the Annunciation of Our Most out corruption gave birth to God the Word.” In her left Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin hand she holds a spindle of scarlet yarn (5) which de- Mary is celebrated on March 25 each year. picts the task she was assigned of preparing the pur- The Feast commemorates the announce- ple and scarlet material to be used in making the veil for the Temple in Jerusalem. Her right hand is raised ment by the Archangel Gabriel to the Vir- in a gesture of acceptance in response to Gabriel’s gin Mary that our Lord and Savior Jesus message (6). Her posture expresses willing coopera- Christ, the Son of God, would become in- tion with God’s plan of salvation. The three stars on carnate and enter into this world through her garments (7) represent that she was a Virgin be- her womb. fore, during, and after the birth of Christ.

Biblical Story The biblical story of the Feast of the Annunciation is found in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke (1:26-39). The Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary, who was living in Nazareth, and said to her, “Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you.” Mary was perplexed and wondered what kind of greeting this was. 7. The three stars on the 8. A depiction of the The angel told her not to be afraid, for she had garments of the Theotokos divine realm and the Holy found favor with God. He said, “You will conceive in represent that she was a Spirit coming upon the Virgin before, during, and Theotokos (detail). your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his after the birth of Christ name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the (detail). Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign At the top of the icon the segment of a circle rep- over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom resents the divine realm (8), from which three rays there will be no end.” emerge. This demonstrates the action of the Holy It is an icon of bright colors, depicting the Archangel Mary responded to the angel by asking how this Spirit coming upon her. Gabriel (1), who has descended from heaven, and the could happen since she had no husband. The angel Virgin Mary (2), who has been chosen to be the told her that the Holy Spirit and the power of God Orthodox Christian celebration of the Feast Mother of God. would come upon her, and that the child to be born of the Annunciation of the Theotokos of her would be called holy, the “Son of God.” The Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos is The angel then proceeded to tell the Virgin Mary celebrated with the Divine Liturgy of Saint John that her cousin Elizabeth had conceived a son in her Chrysostom which is conducted on the morning of old age (John the Baptist), and affirmed that with God the Feast and preceded by a Matins (Orthros) service. nothing is impossible. A Great Vespers is conducted on the evening before In faith and obedience to the will of God, Mary the day of the Feast. Scripture readings for the Feast replied to the angel, “Behold, I am the handmaid of are the following: At Vespers: Genesis 28:10-17; the Lord; let it be according to your word.” Upon her Ezekiel 43:27-44:4; Proverbs 9:1-11. At the Matins: response, the angel departed. Luke 1:39-49, 56. At the Divine Liturgy: Hebrews 2:11- It is on the Feast of the Annunciation, that Orthodox 3. The position of 4. The Archangel‘s right 18; Luke 1:24-38. Archangel Gabriel’s feet hand is extended towards The Feast of the Annunciation in the Greek Ortho- Christians commemorate both the divine initiative of suggest that he is running Mary as he announces the God, whereby He took on flesh from the Virgin for to share the news with blessing bestowed upon dox Church also marks a day of national celebration our salvation, and the human response, whereby Mary (detail). her [Mary] by God for the people of Greece and those around the world Mary freely accepted the vocation offered to her. He (detail). of Greek descent. elected to become man, and He desired to do this It was on March 25, 1821 when Greece officially The Archangel is shown with his feet spread with the willing agreement of her whom He chose as declared its independence and began the revolution apart as if he is running to share the good news with His mother. Mary could have refused, for she was that would eventually give the nation its freedom af- Mary (3). In his left hand is a staff, the symbol of a not a passive instrument, but an active participant ter 400 years of rule by the Ottomans. In addition to messenger. His right hand is extended toward Mary with a free and positive part to play in God’s plan for the services for the Feast, festivities and parades are as he delivers the message and announces the our salvation. Thus, when on this and other feasts the held and official proclamations are offered through- blessing bestowed upon her by God (4). Orthodox Church honors the Theotokos, the Mother of out the world in recognition of Greek Independence God, it is not just because God chose her but also be- Day. cause she herself chose to follow His will. Hymns of the Feast Icon of the Feast Apolytikion (Fourth Tone) Today marks the crowning of our salvation and the revelation of the mystery before all ages. For the Son of God becomes the son of the Virgin, and Gabriel proclaims the grace. Wherefore, we also 5. Her left hand holds a 6. Mary’s right hand is cry out with him, “Hail, O full of grace, the Lord is spindle of crimson yarn raised in acceptance of with you.” depicting the task that she Gabriel’s message had of making the veil of (detail). Kontakion (Plagal of the Fourth Tone) the Temple in Jerusalem To you, Theotokos, invincible Defender, having 1. The Archangel Gabriel 2. The Virgin Mary, who (detail). presents the good news of was chosen to be the been delivered from peril, I, your city, dedicate the the coming of Christ to Mother of God (detail). On the right side of the icon the Virgin sits on an el- victory festival as a thank offering. In your irre- Mary (detail). evated seat, indicating that as the Mother of God she sistible might, keep me safe from all trials, that I The icon of the Annunciation is one that presents is “greater in honor than the cherubim, and beyond may call out to you: “Hail, unwedded bride!” the joy of the announcement of the coming of Christ. compare more glorious than the seraphim, who with- The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009 10/28 TO BHMA

For the bibliophiles... Jobless rate soars

The Proof of God: the Debate to 5.2 per cent that Shaped Modern Belief Atlas & Co., 2008 The jobless rate has soared to 5.2 per while in Victoria it rose to 5.6 per cent Larry Witham ( ) cent for the first time in nearly four years from 4.8 per cent. as deteriorating economic growth In NSW the jobless rate rose to 5.8 per This small handbook begins promisingly. The preface introduces us to the pushed 47,100 people on to the dole cent from 5.5 per cent and in South Aus- main players in Western philosophical debates surrounding the knowability queue in February. tralia it increased to 5.8 per cent from of things seen and unseen, including the monk Anselm, who reluctantly The rise in the unemployment follows 5.6 per cent. a spike to 4.8 per cent in January, Aus- In Queensland it rose to 4.5 per cent was installed as Archbishop of Canterbury at the end of the 11th Century, tralian Bureau of Statistics data released from 4.4 per cent. as well as Ockham (of Ockham’s Razor), and Descartes. However, on Thursday 12 March shows. The rate in Tasmania was unchanged what proceeds in the following chapters is not a rigorous outline of the The government is predicting the job- at 4.5 per cent, as was the case in the debates between those who, like Anselm and Descartes, believed it pos- less rate to rise to 5.5 per cent in June Northern Territory which recorded a 3.9 sible to rationally know God, or their detractors such as Ockham, Kant, and to 7.0 per cent by the same time per cent jobless rate and the ACT which next year. posted a rate of 2.4 per cent. Schopenhauer and Wittgenstein. Instead, what we have is an historical The February data showed the number A sharp jump in the jobless rate would account of the lives of these ‘thinkers’, some of whom (like Anselm and of people employed rose by a slim sea- have been worse if not for the govern- Ockham) were monks. The book sets out to reveal the men, and their times. sonally adjusted 1,800. ment's stimulus measures, Prime Minis- As such, it is a fascinating window into the politics of power from the 11th But those in full-time employment fell ter Kevin Rudd says. by 53,800. "Any job loss is one too many as far as century to the 20th, between various Western Church administrators, Economists had forecast the jobless I am concerned," Mr Rudd told reporters popes and kings, monastic orders, and religious dogma and philosophy. rate to rise to 5.0 per cent and employ- in Canberra. ment to fall by around 20,000. "But had we waited and done nothing... It is available from the library of St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological States most associated with mining these unemployment figures would have College, 242 Cleveland St., Redfern, Sydney 2016 Ph: 02 9698 5066, and manufacturing were the worst hit in been a lot worse." this latest spike in the jobless rate. The government is predicting the job- Email: [email protected] Western Australia saw the biggest less rate will rise to 5.5 per cent by June jump in unemployment in February, surg- and to 7.0 per cent 12 months later. A.C. ing to 4.2 per cent from 3.3 per cent, AAP MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/29 The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009 12/30 TO BHMA

WHAT’S HAPPENING AMONG… GREEK ORTHODOX YOUTH IN MELBOURNE

priority. Th GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AUSTRALIA receive the Saint Nestor magazine, then visit and sub- be a good o scribe at http://www.goyouth.org.au/subscribe.htm facilities th CENTRAL YOUTH COMMITTEE OF VICTORIA Orthodox Y Monthly Lectures

that much o Welcome to the Central Youth Committee of Victoria Daily Readings Reading: Isaiah 5:16-26 The Central Youth Committee of Victoria is under the jurisdiction of the Greek youth are no Click here to view... Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. We represent the Youth here in Victoria. From Saint Nestor By DIONYSIOS A. this webpage you will be able to keep up to date with the latest news and events Each month, the CYC organises monthly lectures Todays Saints them. which are organised by the Central Youth Committee, and each of the Parish fellowship groups around Melbourne. You will also find information about our 11th March 2009 KRINAS * which endeavor to educate the public (especially the x Home Orthodox faith, and links to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia webpage St Sophronios, Patriarch of x Fellowships which contains more information about our Orthodox faith. Jerusalem Holy Confession Click here to view... Orthodox Youth), about various Orthodox topics. The Parishes Lecture Podcasts Find out about St Nestor, the patron Saint of the CYC here. Orthodox Christianity lectures are presented by our Priests, theologians x Saint Nestor News and announcements: Magazine Holy Services in and other presenters. They are most informative. English x New Great Lent & Holy Week programmes available for: 1) Visit of Fr Damaskinos of Mt Athos to Melbourne for A number of people often ask and wonder Holy Confession, Talks & Church Services (in Greek); 2) Church Services presided by His Grace Bishop Ezekiel of x Daily Scripture Dervis. Please click here to go to the church programmes downloads page. Readings x New audio MP3/podcast of "Spiritual Food for Lent" available online. Click here to go to "Lecture Podcasts" Events, lectures & download page. what they can do to get more involved in Activities Monthly Church Short Course In Orthodox Studies programmes Upcoming events: the life of their parish. Perhaps they seek Panagia Gorgoepikoos Monastery Sat 14th Mar Divine Liturgy in English 9.00-10.00 a.m. Geelong Monastery ... Orthodox Christian Catechism Classes Mon 16th Mar Talk: Our Conscience - the Voice of the Holy Spirit? 7.30pm SHARP - 9pm St Eustathios Church, 221 answers to certain religious questions or Dorcas St South Melbourne ... This year there will be a 5 week lecture series on x Links x About Us Sat 4th Apr Divine Liturgy in English 9.00-10.00 a.m. Geelong Monastery ... perhaps, as Greek Orthodox people, born x Contact Us Mon 27th Apr Short Course in Orthodox Studies ... the basics of the Orthodox Christian Faith presented Tue 28th Apr Divine Liturgy in English 7.30-8.45 p.m. St Eustathios Church, 221 Dorcas St South Melbourne ... Click here to see all events. specifically for those who are already baptised Join CYC emailing list Click here to view in calendar mode and raised in Australia, they simply want Email : Copyright © 2008 www.goyouth.org.au Orthodox Christians but would like to learn about their

to learn more about their faith. In Mel- Re-type email : Home Faith. There will be more details of this available soon

bourne, there are a number of facilities Name : on the Central Youth Committee website at: http:// and activities that are both appealing and The home page of the CYC of Melbourne website www.goyouth.org.au/events.php inviting for a number of reasons. Services in English ple; things such as youth dances, retreats, theatrical Parishes plays, sporting activities, book & icon exhibitions and Every month, the CYC, in conjunction with the parish conferences. In addition to this, the CYC organizes a of St Eustathios, South Melbourne, and the Geelong There are 34 Greek Orthodox parishes in the Mel- number of other Orthodox related events, presenta- Monastery organize two Divine Liturgies. This gives bourne metropolitan area with a further 11 outside tions and publications. those who wish to follow the Divine Liturgy in English Melbourne and in country areas. These parishes in the opportunity to do so. A full copy of the dates and Melbourne make attending Church convenient and Saint Nestor - The Central Youth times can be viewed at:http://www.goyouth.org.au/ easy as they are scattered throughout the suburbs. Committee Magazine and Website englishlit.htm.. During or after the service, the parish priest usually gives a sermon on the Gospel in Greek. At some of The CYC of Melbourne has a very informative web- Fellowship Groups the parishes, a sermon is also given in English. site and publishes a bi-monthly magazine titled ‘Saint Nestor’. The purpose of the website and magazine is Youth Groups and Fellowship Meetings are run on The Central Youth Committee (CYC) to circulate Orthodox information, particularly aimed a weekly basis. They are an opportunity for Orthodox at the Youth. The magazine in particular, is handy, in- Christian youth to learn more about our Faith, in a The Central Youth committee (otherwise known as formative and helpful. Handy- because it’s bi-monthly friendly environment. There are currently 19 fellow- the CYC) in Melbourne is the organizing/coordinating and arrives in your letterbox. Informative- because it ship groups running in Melbourne. For a full list of the body, which provides a network between all the local explores various religious, moral and social issues dates and times visit: http://www.goyouth.org.au/fel- fellowship groups in Melbourne. Under the spiritual and informs the youth about up and coming events low.htm guidance of His Grace Bishop Ezekiel, the CYC seeks and the various functions and lectures that are organ- Having a look at the abovementioned range of ac- to foster the development of Orthodox Christian ized by the CYC and the parishes. Helpful- since the tivities and facilities available for the Greek Orthodox groups and Sunday Schools. It also encourages and content is always beneficial in our daily struggle as youth in Melbourne, there is certainly plenty to be in- organizes various social and cultural events, which an Orthodox Christian. volved in. celebrate our identity as young Greek Orthodox peo- If you would like more information, or would like to * D. A. Krinas is a theologian based in Melbourne MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 13/31 Health

to great lengths to try to anticipate the change so vaccination can still take place in the first few that a vaccine can be developed. months of Winter. The Australian Influenza Vaccine Committee have endorsed the World Health Organisation recommen- The influenza vaccine is strongly recommended for HEALTH dations and approved the strains for season 2009. all adults aged 65 years and over, all residents of The 2009 influenza vaccine is a purified inactivated, nursing homes, adults and children over 6 months of split viron (split virus) vaccine and each 0.5 mls con- age with chronic disorders of the heart and lungs, or NEWSNEWS tain the following virus strains: with diabetes, or kidney disorders, or blood dis- orders, and severe asthmatics.  A/Brisbane/59/2007 (IVR-148) (A/Brisbane/59- WITH DR. THEO PENKLIS * /2007 (H1N1) - like) In addition, people who can transmit influenza to persons at an increased risk such as staff at nursing  A/Uruguay/716/2007 (NYMC X-175C) (A/Bris- homes, nurses, volunteer workers and persons who bane/10/2007 (H3N2) - like) provide essential community services should con- FLU VACCINE : sider vaccination.  B/Florida/4/2006 (B/Florida/4/2006 - like) NOW IS THE TIME The vaccine should not be given to anyone who Influenza is generally spread by ‘droplet infection’. suffers from severe egg or chicken feather allergies. FOR YOUR FLU SHOT! That means it is spread by the coughs and sneezes The vaccine is a safe vaccine. It can cause redness of an infected person which create little droplets that or soreness at the injection site, but severe side Each year at this time I like to remind people that hang in the air. These droplets are then inhaled by effects are extremely rare. Inactivated influenza the influenza vaccine, more commonly called the flu other people. The infection starts in the nose and vaccine has been available for over fifty years. Since vaccine is now available. The influenza virus is con- throat of the recipient person and may spread that time, the formulation has been continually stantly changing so it is important to receive vacci- further down into the lungs which can result in improved resulting in far less adverse reactions. nation against the flu every year in order to be pro- bronchitis or pneumonia. tected against the most common strains. Now’s the time! Talk to your family doctor about the The patient with influenza will typically complain of flu vaccine. Getting an annual flu vaccination is a very impor- feeling cold shivers or a high temperature which tant and effective measure in preventing the illness. may come on suddenly, aching muscles (or myalgia) Most people are aware of the benefits of having a And the time to be vaccinated is in March or April to and joint pains, a sore throat and a bad cough. The vaccination each year to protect themselves against ensure maximum protection. The protection devel- person feels very unwell and may be tired and influenza. ops two weeks after getting the injection and lasts lethargic for several days. up to a year. Therefore every year people need to The National Health and Medical Research Council be re-vaccinated. Almost anyone can get influenza, but there are a also recommends that all people over 65 years of number of ‘high risk’ groups who are likely to be age should have an additional vaccine known as the Influenza is a highly contagious infection of the affected. PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE. This vaccine is now pro- nose, throat and lungs. Its effects are rapidly felt vided free to all Australians over 65 years of age. throughout the whole body. Every year during the The single most important preventative measure This winter be fully covered: add pneumococcal winter months, most parts of the world experience one can take is to be vaccinated against the flu. The vaccination to your flu vaccine. Talk to your doctor an outbreak of influenza known as flu’. vaccine is a single injection which can be given by about the pneumococcal vaccine and if you have your family doctor. previously been vaccinated, remember a pneumo- Most young and fit people will recover fairly quickly coccal booster vaccination is required after five from influenza, but for others, it can be a serious The aim of the immunisation is to expose an years. life-threatening illness.. In an average year it’s esti- individual to either a dead or inactive virus so that mated that 1500 Australians die and 20,000 to the body can mount an antibody response. The Immunisation is there to protect you against disease. 40,000 are hospitalised as a result of the flu. response is remembered by the immune system so Now is the time to talk to your doctor about both the that if it is exposed to a real influenza attack, the pneumococcal vaccination and the influenza Influenza is caused by a virus. There are two main body can mount a much quicker and larger response vaccination. viruses which cause the disease, influenza A and to it. influenza B. Each year, the virus changes slightly so * The information given in this article is of a general nature that different forms of one of these viruses appear The best time to be vaccinated is before influenza and readers should seek advice from their own medical practitioner every year. The health authorities in this country go occurs in the community. This is usually Autumn, but before embarking on any treatment. New alcohol guidelines to cut cancer risk

By Danny Rose Professor Olver says alcohol increased the risk of Australia will see a lower incidence of cancer if cancers of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, bowel, liver drinkers adhere to new, tougher alcohol guidelines, and female breast. says Cancer Council Australia. There was no evidence of alcohol consumption hav- Professor Ian Olver says more than 2,800 Australians ing a protective effect against any cancer, he says. were diagnosed with an alcohol-related cancer every The new NHMRC guidelines state both men and year and such cancers claim 1,400 lives annually. women should have no more than two standard drinks Biding by new National Health and Medical Research daily to avoid medium- to long-term risk factors, or four Council (NHMRC) guidelines, which have effectively standard drinks during a night out to avoid more imme- halved the recommended daily alcohol limit for men, diate risks related to drunkenness. would cut the cancer risk, he says. These recommendations are for guidance only, Prof "Any alcohol consumption carries some cancer risk, Olver says, adding people should also have alcohol- and the more you drink the higher the risk," says Prof free days to cut their cancer risk further. Olver, the council's chief executive. "While Cancer Council Australia would have preferred "Alcohol may seem an accepted part of Australian cul- the recommended daily limit for women to have been tural life, but people need to know that drinking incurs reduced from two standard drinks to one, the guide- a significant cancer risk. lines are a big step in the right direction," Professor "Moderating consumption means moderating risk." Olver says. AAP 14/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009

EVAN CARDIACOS (1927-2008) A LIFE REMEMBERED

Evan Cardiacos was born on 23 September 1927 in dead. Devastated he clung on to the icon and found an- Alexandria, Egypt, and passed away on 25 March 2008, other ship bound for Alexandria. He arrived in Alexan- on his feast day, after a long illness. dria with only the clothes he wore and the icon, bitter- His father was born in Smyrna and came to Egypt af- ly upset about the loss of his family but relieved that he ter losing everything in the devastation of Smyrna in the was able to find sanctuary in Egypt. He later met Maria, 1920’s. He and his family took whatever they could and the daughter of an Italian merchant in Alexandria, was rushed to the port where they managed to get a pas- married and had two children Evan (Evangelos) and Lau- sage to Alexandria. ra (Daphne). As they boarded the ship, he realised that he had for- Evan often told me that Egypt always provided sanc- gotten the family icon of the Annunciation that was giv- tuary for people, especially royalty, escaping dangers en to him by his father. He asked the crew to look af- such as wars, revolutions and natural disasters. In fact ter his family whilst he went back to get the icon and Mary and Joseph took Jesus as an infant to Egypt to es- when he returned the ship had been bombed and all cape Herod’s oppression. In the second Word War and the crew and passengers including his family were whilst Greece was under German occupation, the

Drug & Alcohol  Forum

Are you concerned about drugs Evangelos (Evan) Cardiacos and alcohol in our community? as a Scoutmaster in Alexandria Egypt.

Are drugs or alcohol affecting you Greek royal family of King Paul, Queen Frederica and Crown Prince Constantine lived in Alexandria, along or someone you care about? with the Greek government in exile. At the early age of 18 Evan was an active senior scout with the Alexandria Greek Scout Troop and there he first met Prince Con- The Greek Welfare Centre is organising a stantine who was about 6 years of age and was in the community forum to raise awareness on the impact of drug and alcohol use. Cubs (junior scouts). Both had kept in touch from those days until now. In The aims of the forum are - fact whenever former King Constantine visited Australia • To provide education to young people of he made an effort to visit Evan either at his home or for Greek background and their families on the dinner at a Restaurant. In the year 2000 when H.R.H effects of drug & alcohol use Constantine came to Sydney as a member of the IOC • To explore ways of providing support to for the Sydney Olympics, a function was held in his ho- those affected. nour. He sat on the table with Evan and a number of other friends. At one point of the evening, Evan stood A panel of experts will include – up to visit the bathroom, and due to respect, the former • Dr John Howard who is a Senior Lecturer at King Constantine also stood up, with Evan saying to the the National Drug and Alcohol Research people at the table “He may have been King but he re- Centre will be speaking on the impact of spects his old Scoutmaster and that is one of the key drug and alcohol use on young people and values that is taught in scouting”. their families. Evan completed a degree in Commerce at the “Salva- • Dr George Abouyanni who has extensive gios Emporiki” School in Alexandria and this enabled knowledge and experience in the field will him to practice accounting there and later in Sydney. be speaking about treatment options. His father always encouraged him to go into business and not to work for an employer and Evan was deter- th mined to open a business, however his father passed Date: Monday 6 April 2009 away and the political situation in Egypt deteriorated in Time: 6:45pm the early 1950’s. Location: Venus Reception Centre In 1952 at the age of 25 and orphaned after the death 20 Belgrave St of his father, Evan and his mother Maria migrated to Sydney Australia. They both lived in one room as board- Kogarah ers in Flinders Street, Darlinghurst, and he worked in  three jobs to make ends meet. He later brought to Syd-  ney his married sister Laura from Alexandria.  The early years of the 50’s and 60’s were difficult for For more information contact the all the migrants. Australia had an assimilation policy and Greek Welfare Centre on 9516 2188. it was a sort of cultural shock for our parents who wanted their children to maintain their Greek culture within this assimilation climate. It was also a period       when the European migrants were made to feel inferi-     !  or to the then dominant Anglocentric culture.  In 1954 and in this difficult climate for migrants, Evan  " "#" " $  % & "% '   ()  *"# " '+,%"+ $-"# .   initiated the First Greek Scout Troop in Australia called ‘The Second Sydney Hellenic Troop’ with support from MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/33

CONT. FROM PREVIOUS PAGE the Metropolitan of Australia & New Zealand Archbishop Theophylactos, the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW, the Greek Consul-General Mr Papadakis and the Commissioner of Scouting Mr Watson. The Scout Troop had well over 45 scouts, all between 11 - 14 years of age and Cubs (junior scouts) from be- tween 6 - 10 years of age and we also had Girl Guides. In 1955 Evan incorporated his first rug trading busi- ness ‘Carpex’ which was to become the foundation of a great business success, which today trades as ‘Amalgamated Textiles’. Evan was always building strong relationships with customers, suppliers and community leaders. He was educated, cultured, spoke several languages and had a leadership quality that made him stand tall among his peers. He believed in high quality products and service and this was evident when he introduced quality rugs to Australia and initiat- ed the importation of the hand woven Flokati rug from Greece. His leadership and cultured qualities were also evident as the Leader of the Greek Scout Troop and lat- er when the Consul General for Greece, Mr Papadakis, asked him to join him as his Deputy, when he was posted as the Ambassador to India. Evan’s mother Maria was not prepared to go to India and Evan missed his opportunity to be a diplomat. ABOVE: The 2nd Sydney Hellenic Scout Troop at their initiation as boy scouts at the Saint Sophia Hall in 1954. Amongst the The scouts met once a week on a Friday evening at group are Cominos Omiros, former player with Pan Hellenic soccer team and successful restaurateur, Dr Emanuel Gregory, the Saint Sophia Hall and I remember so clearly, how leading eye specialist, Peter Zardelis, successful pharmacist. BELOW: At the formation of the Greek Girl guides with the NSW we would reorganise the hall by moving the desks to Scout Commissioner Mr Watson presenting the award at Saint Sophia Hall. the sides (used every other evening as a school) so that we could play a game called ‘Yermanikos’, which con- sisted of two teams on either side of a net (same as volley ball) and the teams would throw this heavy round ball at each other. We would assemble for the weekly inspection to ensure our uniforms were clean and ironed. During the major celebration days such as East- er, we would add to the décor of the Churches by our presence and by managing crowd control in a disci- plined manner. On one occasion on 21 May 1956, we went to Saint Sophia Hall to ring up Prince Constantine, heir to the Hellenic Throne, to wish him a happy name day. He was a senior Scout in Athens at that time and I remem- ber we exchanged wishes. Evan was our ‘skipper’ and he was in full control of all of the 45 members in our Troop. We only listened to his instructions and to no one else, especially when we were managing the church crowds during the major celebrations, much to the frustrations of the church committee, especially to those who liked to have con- trol. We went on camps regularly, mainly at Heathcote, Waterfall and Little Marley. These places were pretty isolated then and we would get a train from Central to Sutherland and then change to a smaller train for these destinations. We would walk about 6-10 kilometres to the campsite, which had to be protected and have ac- and the full scout troop was included in the funeral pro- by of cooking Italian & Greek cuisine. cess to clean river water. We would then pitch the tents cession, which walked from the church to the corner of In May last year he was diagnosed with cancer of his and then build the fireplace for the cooking. We had Dowling and Anzac Parade and thereafter by vehicle to thyroid but due to his weak heart condition it could not some funny characters at the scouts and had a name Botany Cemetery. be removed. The doctors gave him 2-3 months to live. for each, such as ‘Fat George’ (George Colidakis), ‘Ar- In 1995 all the scouts now over the age of 50 met at Although he knew it, he was always joking and smiling, row’ George Arnamoulis and ‘Athineos’ Harry Harritos. Evan’s magnificent house “Apollo Gate” in Cronulla for as if nothing happened. He wanted to live until his 80th In 1956, we attended the Pan Pacific Jamboree in the 40th anniversary of the Scout Troop. It was a great birthday on 23rd September 2007, but his courage and Melbourne, the first time we had travelled so far as a occasion and it gave us all an opportunity to take an ac- will lasted until his feast day 25th March 2008 group. We had a code word that we used to identify count of ourselves and see what we have done in On Thursday 27th March 2008, many of us were that we were members of the Troop and this was those 40 years and how scouting under Evan’s leader- present at the St Nectarios Church at Burwood to ‘Porzis’ which was answered as ‘Porzas’. I recall when ship influenced us. farewell our Skipper and Father on his final journey and we were in a cinema in Melbourne and had lost each I together with some other former scouts had the to reflect on the great legacy he has left with us and to other in the crowd, in the middle of the film and in dark- privilege of being hosted by both Skipper and his son pass this on to our children and their children, so that ness we heard ‘Porzis’ coming from downstairs and Adrian at regular dinners and this gave us the opportu- his memory will be with us for many years to come. we answered ‘Porzas’ from the upstairs gallery - thus nity to get to meet Evan as a person rather than our On 13th September 2008 I was a guest at the 6th we found each other and returned to our camp by train. Scout master and to experience the wealth of his Bankstown Greek Scouts fundraising dinner dance and In 1958, Archbishop Theofylactos was tragically killed knowledge on history, business and fatherly advice. it was my honour to make a presentation to the Scouts in a motor accident and his funeral was held at the St In the early 80s he started losing his sight and grad- in memory of Evangelos Cardiacos. Sophia Church, where the body of the Archbishop laid ually, by 2005, became completely blind, by a heredi- in state for a week and thousands of mourners would tary incurable eye disease, but that never stoped him come to view his body and pray. At all times there being alert and he memorised all important phone Nick Malaxos (With contribution from Greg Athanassiou were four scouts standing in attention around the coffin numbers, and continued to carry out his favourite hob- Both former Boy Scouts in Sydney and Alexandria) 16/34 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009

GLITZ AND GLAMOUR FOR GOOD CAUSE

By Angela Evangelinou-Yiannakis thodox Primate of Australia and New Zealand. Mr Kakulas has been the ‘Pro- You could be forgiven for think- topsalti’ for 73 years. In 1971, he was ing that the Oscar celebrations awarded the honorary title of Archon Deputatos by the late Ecumenical Patri- were taking place a week early arch Athenagoras, who also awarded and in Perth, Western Australia, him in 1972 the Gold Cross of the Holy as the glitzy attendees filed past Mount Athos. Mrs Evangelia Palassis was honoured and up the stairs of Government for her voluntary services to the Greek House Ballroom. What else could and wider community. For 30 years, she be happening as hundreds of volunteered her time at various hospitals sparkling evening dresses and in Perth and was awarded the Gold Rose upon ten years of service. During her smart suits sached through the fifteenth year of service, a ruby was double doors? added. Mrs Palassis also cleaned the church of Sts. Constantine and Helene on Yes, the event in question was the a weekly basis for many years and later, Cocktail Evening organised by the Parish in collaboration with the priest at the and Community of Sts. Constantine and time, Father Stylianos Vacras, she imple- Helene. Held at Government House Ball- mented Sunday School lessons at the room on Sunday 15 February, from church as well as at various local 6.00pm to 10.00pm, the event was clear- schools. ly much anticipated by Perth’s Greek and Both recipients were presented with a wider community. Evidence of this was honorary trophy by His Excellency the the pre-sale of nearly 270 tickets, secur- Governor of Western Australia, and each ing its status as a ‘must-attend’ function! one gave a brief address, thanking the The mastermind behind this successful (L to R) Rev. Elpidios Karalis, Mr Mihali Kakulas, Mrs Evangelia Palassis, His Excellency organisers and the community at large fundraiser was Reverend Father Elpidios Dr Ken (Komninos) Michael, Governor of WA and Mrs Michael for their support. Karalis, the recently-appointed priest to the church of Sts. Constantine and He- lene. With a small band of dedicated and by Father Elpidios and it included Mrs Industry, and Mr Craig D’cruz, Principal of Fundraising dynamic helpers, including Mrs Despina Despina Christos. Soon after reaching St. Andrew’s Grammar. Christos (Head of the Organising Com- their table at the top end of the Ballroom, The other purpose for the event was Entertainment mittee), Father Elpidios was able to bring the Master of Ceremonies, Mr John to raise funds for three important areas of need: the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, to fruition an idea that originally seemed Stamatis, welcomed the special guests of It stands to reason that an event of this quite far-fetched. nature should demand quality entertain- The Feeding Program-me in Kenya, and the evening and all who were present. the continued restoration of the church of Other special guests included Mr Stan ment and it came in the form of opera Special Guests Sts. Constantine and Helene. Palassis, Vice President of the Greek singer Yvonne Stamatis (nee Petrides) who gave an outstanding rendition of the A visual presentation was shown of Orthodox Archdiocese Council in Austra- At precisely 6.35pm, as the Ballroom was Australian and Greek National Anthems the potential recipients of the funds in a-buzz with excited chatter, a silence lia, Mr Evan Kakulas, President of the Hel- to begin with. Later, she returned to con- Kenya, touching the hearts of the audi- befell to receive the special guests of the lenic Community of WA, Mr Nick Toufexis, clude the evening with classical hit songs ence and leading many to dig deep into evening, His Excellency the Governor of President of the Greek Orthodox Com- in both English and Greek. Being a mem- their pockets during the auctioning of the Western Australia, Dr Ken (Komninos) munity of Evangelismos, Mr George ber of the church choir of Sts. Constan- various items for sale. These included Michael and Mrs Julie Michael. The for- Georgiou, President of the Hellenic tine and Helene, it’s no wonder that two beautiful paintings by Nick Econo- mou, two precious Kailis pearl pendants, mal procession into the Ballroom was led Australian Chamber of Commerce and Yvonne was able to hold the attention of a rather boisterous crowd by this late and various quality sporting parapherna- stage in the proceedings. lia donated by the Floreat Athena Soccer Christian Dior, Gucci, Calvin Klein Also on the entertainment agenda was Club. Mr Paull-Anthony Keightley who has re- The auctioneer, Lear Rompotis, achie- Katerina + Kyriacos Mavrolefteros cently been accepted into the Western ved magnificent results, managing to ex- George Rennie Australian Academy of Performing Arts tract top dollar for each of the items. (WAAPA). His contribution to the evening The total amount raised by the Cocktail OPTOMETRISTS was unique, demonstrating his worthi- Evening was $30,070. ness as a new member of WAAPA’s Classical Voice Programme. Positive ending The success of the evening was be- Honours yond doubt, both in terms of monies raised and enjoyment received by all One of the key reasons for the Cocktail those in attendance. Evening was to bestow honours on two As the evening came to a close, tired special people within Perth’s Greek but content guests meandered through community, Mr Michael Kakulas for 82 the corridors of the Government House years of service to the church, including Ballroom and gardens knowing that their his early years on Kastellorizo, and Mrs presence had made a difference to Evangelia Palassis for 30 years of serv- something or someone in need. Most of 874 Anzac Parade, Maroubra Junction ice to the church and wider community. all, however, there was an air of gran- (at bus stop,, on RTA bllock) Father Elpidios gave the formal address deur that lifted the gait of all, regardless that highlighted the outstanding contribu- of the height of heels worn and the fa- TTeell:: ((0022)) 99331144--00339933 tion of both recipients, with special men- tigue felt for standing in them for a few hours. No, those who attended the Cock- [email protected] tion of their outstanding Christian values and Orthodox ethos. tail Evening knew that they had attended

the event of the season, and that was Silhouette, Carrera, Rodenstock Carrera, Silhouette,

Serengeti, Maui Jim, Fendi, D&G Mr Kakulas was bestowed the title of Chief Chanter in 1970 by His Eminence something to feel good about! Nina Ricci, Oakley, La font Archbishop Ezekiel, the then Greek Or- MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 17/35 Travel Kalavryta In the lap of Mt Helmos

This Peloponnesian town and province have overcome historical adversity to become a popular winter destination

By H. ARGYROPOULOS and take a 45-minute walk up to the historic Monastery of Mega Kalavryta, a small mountain- Spileo, at the bottom of a 120 ous town in the northern Pelo- meter wild bluff 10 km from Ka- ponnese, is these days usually lavryta. The impressive monaste- associated with skiing, which ry, partly built in a cave as its na- has turned it into one of the me suggests, is said to have been country’s most popular winter founded in AD 362. destinations. To make the most of the gorge, In fact, when the local ski you can walk down the railway center opened in 1988, few - if track from Kalavryta to Zachlorou any - could have imagined the in about three hours (on winter economic boost it would give weekends time the hike to avoid to this historic location of 2,500 the train in the tunnels). inhabitants. The Monastery of Aghia Lavra, On a plateau 750 meters 4.5 km from Kalavryta, still hosts above sea level in the lap of the bullet-ridden standard of the Mts Helmos, Panahaiko and War of Independence and a dia- Erymanthos and surrounded by mond- studded Bible donated by fir forest, Kalavryta deserved Catherine the Great of Russia. the boost, if only for the cruel Also worth seeing is the small fate that history had dealt it. picturesque Chapel of Panaghia It was at the nearby Plataniotissa, on the Kalavryta- monastery of Aghia Lavra on Aegio road via Pteri, 30 km from March 25, 1821 that the banner Kalavryta. Built inside the hollow of the War of Independence a- of a huge plane tree, it has an gainst the Turks was raised. icon of the Virgin Mary depicted But, in a devastating twist of on the tree, believed to date back fate over a century later, on to early Christian times when the- December 13, 1943, the Ger- is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 known as the Odondotos, which - the narrowest railway line in ologians were locked in a fierce man occupiers massacred al- p.m., December to April (www. runs along the river’s right bank, Europe, resembling a kind of toy dispute about icons. most the entire male popula- kalavritaski.gr). connecting the village of Diakofto train fantasy of tunnels and pre- The Kalavryta Holocaust Mu- tion over the age of 13, more The prime attractions in the area near the coast with Kalavryta. cipitous overhangs. seum, opened in 2005, has a than 1,100 people, in retaliation are the Vouraikos river gorge, Built by French and Italian engi- On the one-hour ride, passen- wealth of material on the history for the killing of some 80 Ger- one of the most beautiful in the neers in the 1890s to carry min- gers can stop at the lovely and and folk tradition of the area, par- man soldiers by Greek resist- Peloponnese, and the 22.6-kilo- erals down to the sea, Odon- peaceful village of Zachlorou, ticularly events preceding the ance fighters, and set fire to meter rack-andpinion railway, dotos is just 75 centimeters wide where there are rooms to rent, massacre. the town. Today, the bustle in the pedestrianized commercial thoroughfare, several squares and the wide, welllaid- out streets, particularly at week- ends, attest to the town’s re- covery. However, the catastrophe, of which the Sacrifice Monument, 500 meters from the center, and the municipal Kalavryta Holocaust Museum stand as the only reminders, also meant Kalavryta is 190 km, or about 2 hrs Kalavryta (area code: 26920) has You will find excellent cuisine, Don’t miss the imposing and emo- the loss of architectural her- 30 mins by car, from Athens via plenty of accommodation: Fiday particularly meat-based dishes from tive Sacrifice Monument and the itage and the town looks rather the Athens-Patras highway; turn left (24552), from 60 euros, suites 200 locally bred livestock at good prices adjoining sculptural work, emblem unimpressive. Virtually the only at Diakofto after Akrata. Alternative- euros; Helmos (29222), from 80 both in Kalavryta and nearby villa- of the town. See the breathtaking exception is the Paleologina ly, there are two bus connections euros; Kynetha (22609), from 90 ges; just exercise some judgment in Cave of the Lakes in the village of Mansion that houses the cultur- from Kifissou station in Athens euros; Filoxenia (22422/22493), choosing, given that the town is Kastria, at the 17th km on the Ka- al center - a building which had daily, at 9.40 a.m. and 2.30 p.m.. from 70 euros; Castle Resort now a developed destination. In lavryta- Klitoria road. Apart from its curiously also escaped de- Buses to Patras from the same sta- (24556), 2.5 km from town, from 120 town: Varvitsiotis (excellent baked labyrinth of corridors and strange struction on a number of previ- tion, leaving every half hour, or euros, 180 euros for maisonettes; entrees and roast pork) Haralambas stalactite formations, this ancient ous occasions. trains (Hellenic Railways info: 1110) Georgios V (24600), 5 km, from 100 (fine grilled meats) and Peri Orexe- subterranean riverbed has a string The well-developed ski cen- can drop you at Diakofto from euros, suites 145 euros; Aphrodite’s os (for casseroles); Karteri in Ske- of cascading lakes. See the source where you can take the Odondotos Inn (23600), from 85 euros; Anerada pasto and Romantzo in Zachlorou; in of the river Aroanios, near Planitero, ter is 14 kilometers from Ka- railway (26920.22245), only on Sa- (24777), from 110 euros; Montage Lousi, go to Sperchos and Helmos the trout-breeding facility and the lavryta and its 12 slopes span turdays and Sundays in winter time Suites (24700), in Zachlorou, from (here all the ingredients are home- water-powered mill nearby, where elevations between 1,700 and (8.50 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12.10 p.m.). 128 euros. produced by the cook herself). you can buy wholewheat flour. 2,340 meters on Mt Helmos. It MARCH 2009 18/36 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Arts, Food & Wine Editor: Imogen Coward If you’re happy and you know it... Western Music and the Legacy of Greece: part 1

By Imogen Coward emotional and, as a consequence, physical impact manner though, and drew heavily on Ancient Greek upon people. This impact was regarded as so great ideas on text using music to reinforce and guide Over the next few issues, the Vema will explore the that music could have an observable ability to heal listeners in the interpretation of words as his legacy of Greek thought and its influence on the many things from drunkenness to deficiencies in a inspiration for creating his operas. development of Western Music, focussing on the person’s character such as cowardice and also Today, although a composer may be inspired by and emotional qualities of music. alleviate emotional states such as melancholy. build his/her music around a text (for example when It stands to reason that, since music was first inven- But how does music have this effect? composing for a movie soundtrack) words are more ted, people have been aware of its emotional impact. It With regard to the question, I think it is fair to say that the realm of the poet or lyricist, than the musician. It is is the Greeks from the Ancient and Classical times so far no-one has reached a definitive answer. Through commonplace for musical works to be entirely devoid however who are among the earliest to note, theorise observation however, over time music theorists, of text for example in symphonies, chamber music, on and write down observations on the production of philosophers, composers, and performers identified, sonatas and so on. Alternatively, when words are pre- musical sound and also on the link between music and empirically, a number of elements within a musical sent they are often regarded as being of secondary feelings. It is from much of their philosophical and work have particular emotional properties. It is through importance to the ‘musical’ elements such as melody or mathematical musings that Western Music is derived. the careful manipulation of these elements (whether harmony. An illustrative example is that even though For example, one of the greatest legacies of Ancient consciously or subconsciously) that the artists involved Opera has its roots in Ancient Greek ideas on the Greece in Western Music, regardless of genre, is that in the production of music control and convey emotion combining of text and music to aid interpretation, the of Pythagoras’ theoretical basis of musical notes and through sound. widespread practice of performing Operas in archaic intervals (the distance between two notes in terms of What are these elements? Italian, French or German, to an English speaking frequency) in the 5th century BC. This remains at the For the early Greek philosophers, music consisted of audience often renders the meaning of the words core of all of Western music today. According to three basic elements; harmony (in essence the themselves difficult to grasp. Pythagoras’ theory of intervals a perfect 5th= ratio of sequence and combination of notes, or pitches), rhythm With the relegating of text to a lesser place in Western 3:2; perfect 4th = ratio of 4:3; octave= ratio of 2:1 (the (the pattern of long and short notes, sound and silence) Music, the remaining two elements of music, namely product of 3:2 x 4:3); tone= ratio of 9:8 (the difference and text. It is the last of these (text) with which this harmony and rhythm, took on an added significance in between a perfect 4th and a perfect 5th). issue of the Vema is concerned. governing the emotional flavour of music. Here, as the In terms of aesthetics and emotion however, for the Text, in a musical context means simply words or following issues of the Vema will illustrate, the Ancient two heavyweights of Classical Greek Philosophy, Plato lyrics. Although purely instrumental music was known in Greeks left a sizable legacy which has had a and Artistotle, music is tied directly to ethos or, to use Ancient and Classical Greece, by today’s standards the widespread and lasting influence on Western Music to the most adequate term available in the English instruments were somewhat crude, the most oft cited this day. language, character. being the aulos, kithara, and the lyre, as well as a For Plato, music was very much tied up with the variety of percussion instruments such as drums, References: sensitive, cultivated, emotional side of a person. It was cymbals and so on. None of these, so writers of the Plato Republic an aesthetic tool to be used for shaping a person’s time inform us, were nearly as expressive as the Aristotle Politics moral and ethical character. The ‘order’ of particular human voice. Strunk, O. ed. Source Readings in Music History (NY, Norton, 1998) types of music would, he thought, imbue the listeners The most expressive form of music at the time was Chryssavgis, M. The Musical Element in the Greek Orthodox Liturgy soul with the same logic, harmony, balance and, by song in which text plays an integral role. Indeed, in extension, emotional control. However, too much music, terms of the early development of Western music, in he suggested, was liable to cause one to become weak both Byzantine and Gregorian chant, there is no and soft in character. In Plato’s eyes a combination of concept of music without text. Here text is the prime gymnastics and music, addressing between them both focus of a musical work. The music is of secondary Écoutez! physical and emotional needs, would cultivate a well importance, serving to reinforce and guide one’s rounded human. interpretation of the text. Although Aristotle shared some of Plato’s concerns, However, as Western music changed over the Arts Review his lasting influence on the development of music is centuries, text gradually took a less central role, largely concerned more with its function as art and its impact thanks to the invention of more refined and emotionally on the physical well-being of people. Among other expressive instruments. The chief of these is the violin The music from things, he suggested that music has similar properties (invented in the 18th century) which, along with other to tragedy, in that it could affect emotional katharsis in members of the violin family (the viola and the cello) is Classical Destinations II a listener, using for example, enthusiastic, joyous widely recognised as being the instrument most similar Australian Chamber Orchestra melodies to ‘intoxicate’ the soul of an overwrought to the human voice and capable of all its expressive person so that ‘they are brought back to themselves’. subtleties (with the exception of lyrics!). In the Baroque Richard Tognetti (Artistic Director & Lead Violin) Alternatively, he suggested, one may be soothed by era particularly composers began experimenting with Sony BMG 88697359472 music impressing upon a disorganized soul, the logic telling stories, or expressing poetry through musical and harmony of music. sound alone, as occurs in Antonio Vivaldi’s Four From Handel’s Water Although later philosophers (both Greek and Roman) Seasons which, although purely instrumental, has an Music to Rachmaninov’s such as Aristides Quintilianus (4th C. B.C.), Athenaeus (2nd accompanying set of sonnets explaining to the reader famous Vocalise, the An- C. B.C.), and Sextus Empiricus (2nd C. B.C.) differed on and the musician the imagery and ideas behind each cient Airs & Dances by their individual views of what makes good music, they piece. Claudio Montiverdi (A.D. 1567-1643), the father of Respighi or Strauss’ enig- too unanimously recognise music as having a powerful modern Opera, utilised text and sound in a different matic ‘Morgen’ (sung by Sara Macliver), the choice of works is diverse and the performances by FFoooodd && WWiinnee Richard Tognetti and the Australian Chamber Orchestra are simply magnifi- cent. Of particular note is the recording of Bela Bartok’s rowdy and sometimes haunting Rumanian Dalfarras 2005 Shiraz Viognier Folk Dances familiar to so many music students. As cost: under $20 you may expect the interpretations are striking and the playing is deliciously crisp and lively, featuring This red is quite dry with aromas of berries, a hint of cocoa and a complex, full flavour. It performances by both the ACO and ACO2, the train- is fruity and has a long gentle finish. This wine is the perfect accompaniment for a hearty ing orchestra for the ACO (lead by Helena Rathbone). venison pie or stew and is also extremely tasty in the cooking itself. The label is also A must for every CD collection. something of a talking point, featuring the fascinating work of artist, Rosa Pubrick. Serve at room temperature. I.C. MARCH 2009 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 19/37

SCRIPTURE LESSONS IN NEW SOUTH WALES

For more than 40 years the Greek Ortho- (a) to provide a trained teacher in each state school dox Archdiocese has provided scripture where there are three or more Orthodox chil- dren timetabled together in a class for scripture; lessons in many State Schools to provide (b) to offer correspondence and online courses an opportunity for Greek Orthodox chil- where we cannot provide a teacher under the dren to become familiar with their Chris- above policy; tian heritage. (c) to develop and distribute a high school curricu- lum, so that it operates in a 3-4-year cycle; In partricular, His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos (d) to develop an enrichment program with special has shown concerns for Greek Orthodox children. He classroom activities, liturgies, visits from com- has given his blessing and provided the incentive to munity members with special expertise or ex- act in this area. cursions to places of special interest; In one sense it continues the work of the catechet- (e) to promote awareness of the special religious ical instruction of the early church to converts, as education program amongst Orthodox faithful; well as the secret schools (κρυφό σχολειό) during and the Turkish occupation and the heritage of St Kosmas (f) to encourage the community members to volun- Aitolos, the teacher of the nation. It is a major under- teer for and contribute to this important task. taking by the church that operates at a local level through parishes and communities and an army of Future steps volunteers. These Scripture classes provide one of the few op- As a first step a program of community training portunities for many Orthodox children to have some and teacher accreditation is underway. His Eminence contact with their faith. It is especially important Archbishop Stylianos has given his blessing for a trial where children do not attend Sunday School or St Kosmas Aitolos and this has started with the parish of St John at Par- where the family is not so religious. ramatta. The overall aims are to provide the children with a early years was well-meaning but not systematic. It It started with a telephone survey of State schools broad knowledge of the Orthodox faith, a knowledge was often unstructured and provided only in Greek to in the area to consider how many pupils are Ortho- of Christian life and values; contact with the local Or- young children whose main language was English. dox and this uncovered some gaps in our coverage. thodox Church and a sense of pride in being an Or- Over time efforts have been made to improve this Teachers were recruited and an initial meeting has thodox Christian. process but it has not been an easy task for an im- been held with the parish priest Father Dimitri Kokki- migrant church with few resources. nos. A formal training session will be held at Parra- Special Religious Education Quite a few years ago the Pantanassa Monastery matta with invitations extended to other parishes and recognised the importance of scripture. As far back communities in Western Sydney. A program of other The Special Religious Education classes in State as 1984, the Very Rev Fr Stephanos pioneered the regional training sessions will follow as the structure Schools are known widely as ‘Scripture Classes’. first survey of religious knowledge and practices and organization becomes better established. They were allowed originally under the Education Re- mongst Orthodox youth. The findings at that time A second step has been to appoint a volunteer co- form Act 1890. This gave religious denominations were startling and indicated major areas of need. ordinator to work with Father Constantine to better permission to provide religious instruction in State The Monastery was painfully aware of the lack of organise this sphere of the Church’s missionary ac- Schools and that tradition has been maintained, so standard teaching materials and sought to address tivity. Already visits have been made to the field co- that: “In every government school, time is to be al- this need. This was a massive undertaking and it has ordinator for Catholic religious education in State lowed for the religious education of children of any now prepared a curriculum for scripture teachers to Schools within the Sutherland-St George areas. From religious persuasion” (Education Act 1990 Section 32). cover a program over several years. Much of this this visit we have developed an Authorisation Certifi- Unlike some other states, we are fortunate that the work has been coordinated in later years by Mrs He- cate for our scripture teachers, a record of their In- New South Wales Government permits most primary len Magdas, who also served as the Archdiocese Service Training, a formal Working with Children schools to offer weekly lessons for Special Religious representative on ICCOREIS. These materials are re- Check form and a database of teachers is underway. Education. High schools also provide a range of dif- produced by many parishes and are freely available We look forward to working with communities and ferent timetable choices but classes are not treated through the Monastery for wider use in other states, parishes throughout Australia to collaboratively im- as compulsory and therefore classes are not held in parishes or communities. prove this area of Orthodox religious education. Re- all schools. There are still gaps in the high school curriculum quests for assistance together with suggestions, The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese is the accredited and this is now being addressed by Mrs Pelagia ideas or support are more than welcome. Your provider of religious education for Greek Orthodox Kalogerakis of All Saints Grammar and Mr Peter awareness of this task is an important first step. children in state schools in New South Wales. It is al- Mavrommatis of St Spyridon College. The Archdio- Your personal involvement in any form is an indica- so represented on the Inter-Church Commission on cese has also recognised the need for training and tion of your dedication to your faith and commitment Religious Education in Schools (NSW) Inc. (ICCOREIS), systematic preparation and for this purpose His to the parting words of Jesus at his Ascension to go which was established in 1972. Father Constantine Grace Bishop Seraphim has called for an annual forward and teach. It is fair to say that we have a Varipatis has been the official representative on this meeting of teachers. Furthermore, a committee on moral responsibility as Orthodox Christians to pass body for some years and overseen some of the de- scripture teaching has also been established follow- on the treasure which we have received. velopments in this field. ing some initiatives concerning religious education at I hope that this brief account of special religious the Faculty Board of St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox education has been helpful and please accept my Scripture Classes Theological College. apologies for any errors or omissions, especially if I have overlooked the contribution of any co-workers. Some readers may remember their Orthodox Future Policy Please advise me and this will be rectified in future scripture teachers with affection while others may reports. Further details of the Special Religious Educa- have less pleasant memories of the classes they en- What policies can we follow for the future? Of tion Program of the Archdiocese are available dured. By-and-large they were an honest effort un- course, these will need to be formulated and ap- through the author [email protected] dertaken voluntarily and with sacrifice. Adolescents proved by the Archdiocese but it is possible to take a Dr Jim Athanasou may not have realised their value. leaf out of the book of the Jewish Board of Education St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College Certainly the religious instruction provided in the and follow some of its aims in this area: Adjunct Associate Professor, La Trobe University The Greek Australian VEMA MARCH 2009 20/38 TO BHMA

Your guide to what’s on at this year’s Show!

1. Topline Key Messages 5. Great Family Value for the Holidays: The Sydney Royal Easter Show will bring the best of the country to the city, • There is no price increase on last year’s ticket prices! during the Easter school holidays, from the 9 - 22 April, 2009. It promises a • Pre-purchase Carnival coupons save you 25% online jam-packed program of engaging, educational and entertaining experi- • There are 100 Showbags priced at $10 and under ences for the whole family. • Thousands of hours of free entertainment are on offer The 2009 Show is: • Get more hands-on than ever before in the farmyard areas, milk a cow, • Bringing the country to the city shear a sheep, pat a piglet, wash a chook • Engaging and hands-on with all things agriculture - Get Amongst Australia’s • See world class woodchoppers in action Greatest! • The Australian Wool Fashion Awards Parades offer the latest fashions • Offering more value than ever before for the school holidays. The great • The pavilions are full of unique and new shopping experiences news is that entry prices haven’t changed since the last Show. Families can save • More agricultural and arts are on display more with our new print-at-home ShowLink ticket offer, offering 15% off two • New rides include the Pirate’s Revenge, The Looping Coaster, the Haunted adult and two child tickets. Also new is a print-at-home voucher saving 25% Hotel and Buried Alive (coffin simulator) when you pre- purchase $100 worth of ride coupons online for $75. • Find out where your food comes from at the Food Farm • More entertaining than ever before, including True Blue (a brand new night- • Treat yourself in the Woolworths Fresh Food Dome, tasting your way around ly arena theatrical production), the return of the Racing and Diving Pigs, the the Food Lovers’ Walk new Erth Petting Zoo (an interactive children’s show featuring lifelike dinosaurs), more street theatre and fantastic Carnival rides including a new 6. See the Sydney Royal Winners: looping roller coaster and a coffin simulator • From hosting the most prestigious Dog Show in the Southern Hemisphere, • Bringing the best of gourmet food to you with a new international food to the largest Art competition in Australia, to the top Woodchop compe- court, Sydney Royal Deli, picnic hampers and RAS Wine Bar tition, amongst many others, the Sydney Royal is renowned internationally as one of the most prestigious shows of its kind. 2. Why is it the Show the Greatest? • This year will not disappoint in the judging ring with a full Sydney Royal Horse • It is acknowledged as one of the top10 shows of its kind in the world Show, Dairy and Beef Cattle Shows, the District Exhibits, Poultry and Pigeon Show, • It is the largest annual event in Australia with around 900,000 visitors Alpacas, Arts, Cat Show, Cage Bird Show, Cavy Show, Rabbit Show, Rat and • It’s the largest agricultural Show in Australia with over 14,300 animals Mouse Show, Flower and Garden Show, Pig Show, Goat Show and Sheep and and 33,000 competitive entries Fleece Show, amongst others. • Nearly $500 million is pumped into the NSW economy annually. • Winner of the 2008 NSW Tourism Award Major Festival or Event category, 7. Special theme days and promotions: Hall of Fame recipient and People’s Choice Award (shared with Bridge • Opening Day Carnival Offer - 9 April - unlimited rides for $30, from 10am Climb) to 2pm • School Day - 9 April 3. The Stars of the Show are the Animals, including: • Seniors Days - Tuesday 14 April and Wednesday 15 April • Bluey, the Blue Cattle Dog in ‘True Blue’, an Aussie arena show celebrating the • Official Opening Ceremony & Grand Parade Wednesday 15 April Australian way of life, mateship, heroes and the spirit of the bush • Scouts Day - Saturday 18 April • The racing and diving pigs (they’re back!) • Cultures on Show - Sunday 19 April • Noddy the tallest horse in Australia (tbc) • NRL Day - Wednesday 22 April • All the baby animals in the Dairy Farmers Farmyard Nursery • Kids Day - April 22 is also Kids Day. $10 entry for kids makes this the best • All 14,300 animals coming to this year’s Show! value family entertainment in town.

4. Also new this year: 8. Facts You Need to Know • The new Erth Petting Zoo, featuring lifelike dino-saurs • Show dates - Thursday 9 April - Wednesday 22 April, 2009 • The new Supercoat Flyball Challenge, featuring dog relays • Location - Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park • Great Backyard Pumpkin Challenge • Website - plan your day at www.eastershow.com • Space Cowboy and his neon lights, Captain Frodo and his tennis racquet • ShowLink tickets - include entry to the Show and return public transport. tricks, Shep Huntley on a bed of nails, Zoe Ellis on a ladder of swords and Purchase them online at www.eastershow.com from 2 February, and from partic- Sideshow Pat, the MC of Psycho Sideshow ipating metro Australia Post Shops. • World records being set on the last three days of the Show - Adult $32.00, Conc. $25.50, Child $21.50 • A new street theatre program - Pre-purchase a family ticket online and save up to 15%. Just $90.80 for 2 • Wow Wow Wubbzy children’s show adults + 2 children (normally $107.00) • New Showbags include Hanna Montana, Wall-E, Disney Princess, The Amazing - Pre-purchase individual tickets online and save10%. Adult $28.80, Conc. $22.90, Spiderman, Camp Rock, Little Pet Shop, ABC for Kids, Baby Looney Tunes, Pink Child $19.30. Offer closes 25 March Panther, Ben 10, Diego, Backyardigans, Lazytown, Roary, Star Wars, WWE, FHM, - For entry after 5pm, get 30% off with a ShowLink After 5pm ticket. Adult $22.00, Mad magazine, Xbox 360, Madison and Diva. There is also a new Disney Conc. $17.50, Child $15.00 Showbag Stand. - Save on Kids Day, Wednesday 22 April. $10 per child.