THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside Greece email: VEMA [email protected] DECEMBER 2005 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 In this issue... To all our readers we extend our sincere good wishes for a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year

Dr Steven P. Mistilis THE ‘BIRTH’ OF GOD honoured for contribution to medicine AND THE ‘REBIRTH’ PAGE 24/52 OF THE HUMAN PERSON This year, Christmas arrives to find all humanity once When we chant “CHRIST IS BORN”, we are confessing again restless, unsatisfied, and troubled in various ways. one Birth which radically changed the history of the world. A Birth It is therefore no exaggeration to say that people do not feel which has united the Earth to the Heavens forever! ‘safe’ anywhere today, regardless of which country or region of the For it was not a birth like all others, which begin and fin- earth they live in. ish in time. If that were the case, we would simply say ‘Christ was Nor do they feel ‘content’ today, even though our earth has born’. But we instead say “HE IS BORN”! This signifies never before known so many and various good things (in food, A ‘Mystery’ without boundaries! health, education, development and recreation). Without limitations. Science and technology now enable us all the possibility of Without exclusions. living like ‘small gods’! And yet we can no longer enjoy anything, Without fanaticism. because it appears that we have not appreciated anything correctly. The ‘embrace’ of God, which was opened in Bethlehem We have lost our proper relationship with nature, with our fel- through the pure and Ever-Virgin Mary, had, and still has, the pre- low human being and, above all, with God. eternal purpose of ‘sheltering’and ‘transfiguring’every person who As a worldwide community, which has now become ‘one comes into the world. neighbourhood’, we have unfortunately become a single pitiful Orthodoxy, remaining faithful to the doctrines and teach- group who suffer hardships as well as cause them. ings of the Ecumenical Councils, did not accept to ‘monopolize’ As strange as it may sound, nobody can state with certain- God Incarnate for only one people. For one place. For only one lan- Australia to lead ty who is essentially more pitiful: the victimizers or the victims? guage. Of course we are informed - and frustrated - about the However, in order for all people and all cultures to ‘fit’ new effort to return unbelievable sufferings in the so-called ‘undeveloped world’ (eco- into the boundless Love of the One God, we must all share all goods Elgin Marbles nomic devastation, epidemics involving untrea-table diseases, and of this world (be they material, educational or spiritual) like the massive death tolls through hunger or natural disasters). pieces of ‘Antidoron’. PAGE 18/46 But the tragedy does not stop here! And the Antidoron (literally meaning ‘instead of the Holy Even in countries of economic ‘abundance’ and countless Gifts’, which we receive in the Eucharist) invites all people into a ‘luxuries’, perceptive analysts are now recording the alarming pro- family relationship with ‘common gratitude’. portions of psychosis and paranoia, such that the border between Only in this way will the paradoxical ‘Birth of God’ be ‘con- ‘happiness’ and ‘sadness’ seems very blurred indeed. tinued’ within each mortal person. That Birth which determines the What, then, is to blame for the universal ‘misfortune’of the ‘rebirth of the human person’! modern world? How can we find some balance in our disturbed This is at least the official teaching of the Church concern- ‘relations’? ing God Incarnate. It is this precise problem - of ‘relationships’ - that the Moreover, this is how the greatest ‘Mystics’ from among Feasts of the 12 Days of Christmas seek to address in terms of sal- the Church Fathers formulated the teaching. vation. For they interpret and proclaim the astonishing truth of the St Maximos the Confessor characteristically said that, Birth of God. And, by extension, the final Re-birth of the human according to the example of the Mother of God (Theotokos), every person. faithful person -whether man or woman - should apply their own The hymns of Christmas - which are poetic forms of the- personal humility and obedience in order to ‘bear’ God the Word in ology written by the greatest hymnographers of the Christian world the flesh, thereby beco-ming a ‘bearer of Christ’ (Christotokos and - assist us to ‘enjoy’ the Mystery of the Birth of God which, amidst Christoforos). the uncertainty of our mortal life, truly sounds like a ‘strange We could not convey a brighter or more comforting ‘mes- Mystery’. sage’ today to our inconsolable world, than this most sacred faith, Perhaps we cannot easily imagine just how ‘paradoxical’ prayer and expectation of becoming ‘God-like by grace’. and ‘unbelievable’ are the messages contained in the awe-inspiring To the God of Love, who came as an infant for all people, melody which informs both believers and non-believers each year be glory and worship to the ages! FEATURE: that “CHRIST IS BORN”! However, if we carefully consider that brief confession in Christmas 2005 The Feast of Epiphany: the form of a doxology, we will have already prepared our souls to With fervent prayers to God see all things in a totally different light. The Feast of Lights To see, in other words, as completely ‘changed’ the world Archbishop STYLIANOS that has tired us. The world that has angered us. The world that has Primate of the Greek Orthodox PAGE 11/39 terrorized us. Church in Australia DECEMBER 2005 2/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

THE RECENT OFFICIAL CLASSIFICATION OF ALL SYDNEY COLLEGE OF DIVINITY FACULTY

His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, Indeed the exercise would allow all aca- Guy Freeland and Dr Ken Parry. From Primate of the Greek Orthodox demic staff within the Sydney College of these statistics alone one can appreciate Archdiocese of Australia and Dean of St Divinity to be placed on parity with their col- just how well St Andrew’s faired in this Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological leagues in Universities. It would also put the whole academic classification process. College was recently appointed Professor Sydney College of Divinity into compliance of Theology by the Sydney College of with federal government regulations. Furthermore, it was also determined that Divinity not only in recognition of his aca- According to the information officially the Dean of the Sydney College of Divinity demic degrees, his research activity, schol- communicated to St Andrew’s by Dr would carry the classification of Professor ex arly contributions and creative writings, Raymond Nobbs, the Dean of the Sydney officio. Dr Raymond Nobbs has served most but also his professional standing, educa- College of Divinity, the results of the classi- commendably as Dean for over ten years and tional and administrative leadership and fication were as follows: has considerably advanced the status of the remarkable service to the community. out of the 103 applications which were Sydney College of Divinity. submitted for its consideration, the His publications alone include thirteen External Classifications Committee The Faculty of St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox books, over sixty articles in refereed theolog- appointed only one Professor, this Theological College would like to take this ical journals within Australia and abroad, being His Eminence Archbishop opportunity to congratulate its Dean, and PEARL HARBOR BOMBED printed in Greek, German and English, as Stylianos. It is equally noteworthy that also the Dean of the Sydney College of December 7, 1941 well as over thirty volumes of poetry. from the Faculty of St Andrew’s Greek Divinity for their professorial title officially Throughout the major part of this year the Orthodox Theological College, two recognized for their academia in general. At 7:55 a.m. Hawaii time, a Japanese Sydney College of Divinity was engaged in (out of seven within the entire Sydney But at the same time, St Andrew’s would like dive bomber bearing the red symbol a process of classifying all of the academic College of Divinity) were classified as to express wholehearted and sincere thanks of the Rising Sun of Japan on its staff teaching within each of its Member Associate Professors, namely Dr to all Colleagues (men and women) of the wings appears out of the clouds Institutions. A special committee made up of James Athanasou and Dr John Lee and Sydney College of Divinity for their valuable above the island of Oahu. A swarm of academics external to the Sydney College of two (out of fourteen within the entire assistance throughout the two decades since 360 Japanese warplanes followed, Divinity was assigned the responsibility of Sydney College of Divinity) were clas- the establishment of our Theological descending on the U.S. naval base at undertaking this classification exercise. sified as Senior Lecturers, namely Dr College. Pearl Harbor in a ferocious assault. The surprise attack struck a critical blow against the U.S. Pacific fleet Greek and drew the United States irrevoca- Greece hands Olympic bly into World War II. land registry safeguards ARCHAEOLOGISTS ENTER flame to Italians KING TUT'S TOMB November 26, 1922 The Olympic flame, lit in the birthplace of Olympic Committee, said: “Our Italian friends expat pensions the ancient Games in Greece, was on Tuesday now take the symbol that unites nations and In Egypt's Valley of the Kings, British 6 December 2005 set on its two-month long transmits messages of peace and friendship.” Greece has made special provi- archaeologists Howard Carter and Lord journey through Italy where it will launch the Kyriakou then handed the torch to the head of sions for Greek-Australians as Carnarvon become the first souls to enter Turin Winter Games. the Turin organising committee, Valentino part of its promised first land reg- King Tutankhamen's tomb in more than Castellani. ister. 3,000 years. Tutankhamen's sealed burial Ice-skaters danced in the marble Athens stadi- “It’s a great honour for us to receive the flame With Albania, Greece is chambers were miraculously intact, and um where the first modern Olympics were held from this stadium, so full of history,” said Europe’s only country still lack- inside was a collection of several thousand in 1896 before the flame was handed by Greek Castellani, who took the flame away in a storm ing a land registry. priceless objects, including a gold coffin to Italian Olympics officials for the February 10- lantern. In a bid to right the wrong, the containing the mummy of the teenage 26 Games. The flame will begin its final journey from conservative Government has king. Lit from the sun’s rays in the ruins of ancient Rome, carried by 10,001 torchbearers across begun drawing up legislation to Olympia where the Games began more than Italy, visiting 140 cities, and crossing neighbour- ensure that a land registry is in FIRST HUMAN 2,700 years ago, the flame travelled to Athens, ing countries, such as Slovenia, Austria, place by 2010. HEART TRANSPLANT host of last year’s Olympics, and was flown to Switzerland and France. Announcing the move, Public December 3, 1967 Rome for the torch relay that began on Dec. 8. The Turin Games comprise seven different Works Minister Giorgos Souflias An athlete skated down the middle of the horse sports and 15 different disciplines, which will said that a special system would On December 3, 1967, 53 year-old Lewis shoe-shaped stadium in the last stretch of the take place in eight competition sites. About be devised for Greek-Australians Washkansky receives the first human relay and handed the torch to Olympic 400 2,500 athletes, 650 judges and umpires are so that their properties could be heart transplant at Groote Schuur Hospi- metres hurdle champion Fani Halkia, who lit a expected to participate before one million spec- recognised without them missing tal in Cape Town, South Africa. large metal cauldron. tators. out on their pensions. Minos Kyriakou, president of the Greek Reuters MARCONI SENDS FIRST ATLANTIC WIRELESS TRANSMISSION December 12, 1901

Italian physicist and radio pioneer Gug- Letter to the Editor lielmo Marconi succeeds in sending the first radio transmission across the Atlantic Dear Editor a gold medal on the basis of a lie would never make any true ath- Ocean, disproving detractors who told him lete or coach proud. that the curvature of the earth would limit May I be permitted to offer an individual response to your item Whenever a young athlete asks me about taking drugs I say “sure, transmission to 200 miles or less. The mes- on drugs in weightlifting, as published in the November edition. so long as they are dried nuts, fruit, vegetables, water, eggs, fish...” sage- simply the Morse-code signal for the As a weightlifting coach for some 25 years and as an Australian That is it! With the exception of good Greek fetta, spanakopita and letter "s"- traveled more than 2,000 miles national referee, I can absolutely assure all of my fellow Hellenes the like, they need nothing else to build strength. from Poldhu in Cornwall, England, to that the Australian Weightlifting Federation takes this issue most In Australia we are taught at the very beginning of any career in Newfoundland, Canada. seriously and has done so since I have been there. weightlifting, whether technical official, coach or athlete, there is Our President is also our inspiration. He is steadfastly opposed to NO place for drugs of any description. That is why our athletes are drug cheating of any description and his integrity, his leadership amongst the cleanest in the world and why, as a coach and as an drive all of us to act accordingly. And as he is also the President of official, I am so proud of them. the Australian Commonwealth Games Association, I would not need to ask him about drugs in that great competition next year. Mr Ange Kenos Put simply, there is no place for drugs in sport. A real athlete seeks Victoria to win honestly, and to know that they deserved to win. receiving (Cth Games Baton Runner Volunteer, 2006) DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/31 Editorial

Economy Minister Giorgos Alogoskoufis have to stay the Debt noose tightens course. Double-talk PASOK must elevate the common good above partisan self- Up until the mid-1990s, Greece’s two mainstream parties treat- interest by joining hands with the government. The reason is By Stamos Zoulas ed the mammoth size of the public debt as a threat not only to not merely because this is a major national priority, but also fiscal stability but even to the country’s very future. because it is largely to blame for the current woes. The presentation of the draft budget this time every year spurs Gradually after 1996, in a trend that peaked with the country’s the typical mix of reactions from the ruling and opposition par- membership of the Continent’s common currency area, the KATHIMERINI ties. eurozone, the government of Costas Simitis succeeded in sell- The government brags that the budget is growth-oriented ing to society the mantra of a “powerful Greece” that rode on Imperfect justice while stressing the need for fiscal reform to open the path to the back of a thriving economy. PASOK’s political skulldug- economic revival. At the same time, the opposition slams the gery was aimed at projecting a facsimile of reality that would By T. Economopoulos alleged austerity measures and hefty taxes that are said to per- translate into more votes for the Socialist party. petuate deprivation among lower-income groups. Paradoxi- The repercussions of all this were devastating. The PASOK The further the scalpel cuts into the ongoing investigation into cally, both parties refer to the same data. And they use each rhetoric washed over legitimate concerns, loosened self- alleged trial-fixing rings in the judiciary, the more we realize other’s arguments as they alternate in power. restraint and pushed Greek society into an unchecked level of the extent and depth of the corruption in this sector. Have our political leaders ever considered the impression they consumerism. The deficit revision conducted by the conserva- Indeed, we may all have had an inkling of the strange goings- give when they switch power roles? Now that political tive New Democracy government and the reports by the on in this sensitive area of public life - some of us may even changeovers have become more common, these wild swings European Commission were sobering for the average citizen. have had personal brushes with “imperfect justice” - but only do little to promote the credibility of the mainstream parties. According to official data, about a quarter of all tax revenue is few of us can have grasped the extent of this problem. Voters do take offense. They have also had to put up with eco- used for servicing the public debt. Interest rate payments Many claim that the probe is just beginning to approach the nomic austerity measures since 1985, and that doesn’t help absorb more money than what is laid out in the public invest- crux of the matter, now that it has extended to lawyers. After either. All these years - which saw Socialist and conservative ment program, which is used to finance the country’s big infra- all, it would have been very difficult for allegedly corrupt governments and a short-lived coalition - voters have had plen- structure projects. In fact, it’s more money than the sum of all judges to prosper without the mediation of lawyers, who stand ty of time to ponder the causes of belt-tightening policies. subsidies to the social security funds. And this is happening at between the judge’s bench and the defendants’ dock. Above all, they have long ceased to believe in fatalistic prog- a time when, thanks to low interest rates, the budgetary burden Recent comments by several individuals in responsible posi- noses and to hope for magical solutions. Hence, the two main for the payment of interest rates is relatively small. tions, including Athens Bar Association President Dimitris parties should show some modest responsibility when tackling For those who find no comfort in illusions, the numbers are Paxinos, suggest that we have only seen the tip of the iceberg the country’s economic woes. undeniable: Greece is heavily in debt and faces the hefty con- in this worrying affair. And many of those in the know suggest After all, no matter which party is governing, both put forth sequences of unchecked borrowing. To make matters worse, that the names being mentioned in connection with the alleged more or less the same diagnosis and follow the same prescrip- loans were not used to fund development projects but to cover rings are not a comprehensive overview of the total, which tion to remedy the problem. Exploiting the troubles for reasons outstanding fiscal needs. allegedly includes some very big names. of political expediency will only worsen them. Politicians’ In light of current circumstances, there can be no other solu- But it is shocking (if not surprising) that a country in which double-talk is undermining their credibility, but it has also been tion but a policy of gradual debt reduction. No doubt every dozens of anti-corruption squads have been set up to purge a means for regaining power. But the days when voters will fall government wants to retain room for handouts to help them public life on various levels has a team of just six inspectors for populist slogans are gone for good. It’s time parties caught reap political benefits. The national economy, however, has overseeing some 4,000 judges and prosecutors. up with the more mature voters. long since lost all room to maneuver. The economy is deep in the red; Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis and National KATHIMERINI KATHIMERINI

the Star of David has already been used Talking for that sort of thing in the past, but I’m sure there must be another appropriate symbol we can get people to wear. But we already know who they are. They’re peo- Point ple like us. People with olive skin, dark wavy hair and dark brown eyes. People by Ann Coward who have a ‘Middle Eastern appearance’. News media businesses benefit from stir- ring the pot. We must understand that for More foolish most journalists, their prime function is to sell advertising space. The more newspa- than wise pers sell, the more people listen to a partic- ular radio show, or watch a TV show, the One day someone will carry out a study more impressive the figures that can be on the role played by the media in creat- presented to advertisers. And they buy ing, rather than reporting, the news. How advertising space with whoever has the many fires are deliberately started each largest audience. year? How many death threats are issued? MAX OUZAS All of them due to people becoming The news media is the most influential stirred up by so-called news reports. How force in our society. This is not to deny many more riots were fuelled in France that there are real problems in our society recently because people wanted to watch Prestige that have been brewing for a long time. reports of their handiwork on the evening But it is the news media that supplies us news? with most of our information. People trust news reports, yet they mislead and manip- And how many people turned up on ulate us on a daily, if not hourly, basis. And Sydney’s beaches, or at mosques, because ignorance is the news media’s best friend. the media ‘reported’ details for people to gather? All in the name of news reporting, Education, on the other hand, is an indi- ÐïõëÜìå êáé áãïñÜæïõìå üëåò ôéò åêëåêôÝò ìÜñêåò áõôïêéíÞôùí of course. Is it in the public interest to vidual’s best friend. And we are not going actually broadcast the information in SMS to get this from listening to talkback radio. messages? Is it necessary? Well, if you’re How do we educate ourselves and our AUDI, BMW, FERRARI, a journalist, and you’re hoping for an children? Awareness is the first step. ongoing news story, it’s certainly in your Simply switching TV channels from one JAGUAR, MERCEDES, PORCHE, company’s interests to encourage vio- half-hour news report to another on the lence. Even if rioters can’t string two same evening and comparing versions of SAAB, VOLVO, ê.Ü. coherent words together, there will always the same news story, is a good start. The be plenty of good photo opportunities. very worst thing we can do is to think that Åðéóêåöèåßôå ôçí ÝêèåóÞ ìáò óôï because something is printed or What will be the next step? I’m surprised announced on TV or the radio, it must be 116 Whitehorse Road, Balwyn VIC no-one has suggested making people wear true. Chances are, it’s not. some sort of symbol, just so that everyone Þ ôçëåöùíåßóôå óôïí Ìáî Ïýæá will know who the enemy is. Let’s see … 114877 DECEMBER 2005 4/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Association headed the morning session on Greek studies education. He was followed by the City University of New York’s Dr Christos HACCI Ioannides , DC solicitor John Karambelas and New York’s Hellenic Classical Charter School’s (K-7) principal Joseph Martucci. There are nearly 4,000 charter schools in the USA . In 10 years they have grown to 5% of the national total . They are government-fund- ed , comply with State and national education- al requirements and have a religious or cultur- Business al emphasis like our independent schools. Engaging Eleni Gage Bulletin The next session on the ‘power of culture’ was chaired by Professor Van Coufoudakis an expert on modern Balkans politics and US relations with Greece and Cyprus. He will visit Greek - Americans: Australia in 2007. th Dr Helen C Evans the Metropolitan Museum 4 AHI conference Archbishop Dimitrios, chairman Stylianos Zavvos, Eugene Rossides and John Metaxas of Art’s Curator of Early Christian and background Byzantine Art explained how to attract 9,000 in New York people daily through thoughtful displays and The American Hellenic Institute office is in Rossides led the Greek-American lobby exhibitions . Eleni Gage the 31 year old daugh- Washington DC comprises mainly US citizens which was instrumental in the US imposing a ter of Nicholas Gage (‘Eleni’) engaged us Con Berbatis a former HACCI WA presi- and promotes international issues of concern to 7:10 arms ratio on Greece and Turkey after the about her stay amongst her grandmother’s dent reports on his trip to Canada and the the USA, Greece and Cyprus ( ). The AHI has July 1974 invasion of Cyprus. family near Mt Grammos in Greece’s western USA from 14 to 20 November. Con has a Business Network which holds monthly The AHI holds annual conferences entitled ‘ Macedonia resulting in her book ‘North of worked on international Hellenic business meetings for businesspeople. Greek- The future of Hellenism in America’ . In 2005 Ithaka’ (2005). networking and Greek studies education Australian business people attend these meet- it was held at the International Affairs Building from kindergarten to Year 12 in day and ings in New York City’s Columbia University. Working the US media after hours schools. Con reports here on the The AHI is the key Greek-American lobby His Eminence Archbishop Dimitrios , New John C Metaxas the “anchor” of the award- meeting of the American Hellenic Institute and is headed by president Eugene Rossides a York’s Consul- General for Greece Katerina winning WCBS News Radio in New York led held on 18 and 19 November in New York lawyer and Assistant secretary of the US Boura , the AHI’s executive director Nick the last session . City. Treasury Department from 1969 to 1973. Mr Larigakis, writer Thea Halo (‘Not even my Metaxas discussed the technique of ‘linking’ name’) and reporters from the ‘Odyssey’ inter- Greece and Greek-Ame-ricans with other top- national monthly journal and the US Greek- ical news in order to attract the media bosses WELCOME TO THE LIBRARY American weekly newspaper “National He- and appeal to modern US audiences. OF ANDREW’S GREEK ORTHODOX THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE, SYDNEY rald” and local media attended. Brooklyn’s impressive Reve-rend Eugene Columbia University’s Director of the Pappas is a spokesman for the North American Hellenic Studies Professor Vangelis Calitychos Greek Orthodox Archdiocese. He spoke about opened the meeting and introduced the key- the difficulties confronting the church with note speaker Emeritus Professor Charles Mo- the majority of Greek-Americans not just skos from Chicago’s Northwestern University. “marrying out” but committing to relation- ships with non-Christians. Professor Charles Moskos Mr Eugene Rossides outlined the challenges What does the Library contain? Professor Moskos is the famous author of faced by the AHI and the lobbying techniques ‘Greek Americans’ series and is writing the The Library has an open access collection located on one level of its campus at 242 Cleveland St, Redfern 2016, Sydney. it employed to influence the various arm of the The collection includes subject areas such as Church History, Biblical Studies, Systematic and Pastoral Theology, which is third edition. Prof Moskos a military sociolo- US government. Mr Rossides also looks for- divided into: gist who has visited Australia four times said ward to visiting Australia soon. there were 1.2 million Greek-Americans . Reference material: Including Greek and English encyclopedias, dictionaries, Patristic texts, liturgical reference works. For The meeting was punctuated with vigorous use in Library only. The percentage of Greek-Americans is falling question-times and networking during inter- Periodicals: For use in Library only. rapidly because migration has stopped and Liturgical Texts collection: Prescribed borrowing period applies. missions. Byzantine Music collection: Prescribed borrowing period applies. they have small families. The recent release of Professor Speros Microfiche: The Patrologiae Graeco-]Latinae series is currently available on microfiche. Ask the Librarian for assistance. They were a highly educated and affluent Vryonis’ 2005 classic ‘ The mechanism of Special Reserve: Three-day loans are available on these select items. group . “My big fat Greek wedding” was a catastrophe ‘ on the destruction of the Greek recent success but because of their small size community of Istanbul in September 1955 fea- Who can borrow from the Library? they had to compete resourcefully for political tured in many discussions (Greek-works.com, influence . The primary function of the Library is to assist St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College in its work of teaching and New York, 2005). research. The participants in the Conference dispersed Charter Greek schools to enjoy the many , varied and novel Greek- However it welcomes members of the general public with an interest in its theological resources. Details of borrowing rights Professor Victor Papacosma from Kent State should be discussed with the Librarian. American eating places on a cool New York (Ohio) University’s and the national Execu- evening. tive Director of the Modern Greek Studies What services are offered by the Library?

Information - Library staff can assist with:

• finding resources and references • searching the Library catalogue

Photocopying and binding - Borrowers are to nominate a code for using the photocopier which the library staff will record and keep private. Spiral binding is also available for a small fee.

How can I contact the Library?

You are welcome to visit the Library at the above address. Alternatively, you may contact the Librarian, Mr Chris Harvey, through one of the following means:

Tel. +61 2 9698 5066 Fax. +61 2 9319 4281 Email. [email protected] Web. www.sagotc.edu.au

What are the opening hours of the Library?

The Library welcomes both College students and visitors at the following times:

10.00am – 6.00pm Monday to Thursday 9.00am – 5.00pm Friday

Please note however that it is closed on weekends, public holidays, as well as on the following major feast days: 6 January, Education session: John Karambelas (DC), Prof Victor Papacosma (Ohio), Dr Christos

25 March, Holy Friday, Easter Monday, 15 August. Ioannides and Joseph Martucci (New York) 12991 DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/33 Our Primate’s View

Every time we ‘commemorate’ one or and not the blood relationship, which will why those who were beyond the Twelve more Saints of the Church, we become always be the determining factor connect- and ‘called’ in a different manner - but to direct witnesses to various benefactions ing (to the point of ‘identity’) different the same mission - could not be considered and blessings of God. This is well-known people through their communion in Christ. ‘inferior’. On the contrary, when we con- of course to the faithful, and especially to sider how decisive the contribution of those who are involved in the life of the What matters decisively and most of all, James the Brother of the Lord was, as the Church ‘with faith, reverence and fear of both within Church and within family, is first Shepherd and Bishop, for the gather- God’. that the person is ‘transfigured’ or ing and stability of the first Mother ‘reborn’ in Christ. Community of Jerusalem, as well as Paul’s We may not all be in a position to Andrew, then, is not simply the “son of contribution for the evangelization of the communicate, or even to appreciate, Jonah”; he is the First-Called. And he is nations, and the purity of the preaching of these ‘invisible’ blessings to the same not “Simon bar Jonah”, but rather Peter the Gospel, we will realize that degree, depending on our personal recep- (Petros, the rock) who, on account of his Apostolicity is the undivided ‘lot’ given tivity. What is important, however, is that confession concerning the divinity of the from above. we attribute all of these to their true source. Lord, was made worthy to hear from Him And this source is certainly none other that most distinctive play on words: “you The fact that each of the Apostles than the true God in Trinity, for whom we are Peter (ÐÝôñïò), and on this rock exercised a common command and will never tire of confessing that “every (ðÝôñá) will I build my Church…” (Matt. responsibility under different historical good and perfect gift is from above, com- 16:18). circumstances and conditions, gives them ing down from You the Father of Lights”. of course an inviolate ‘precedence’ of his- 2) The ease with which we have seen the torical value (as does the order of seniori- In any case, the mystical yet undoubt- voice of the First-Called replaced by the ty among the five ancient Patriarchates), ed blessings that enrich us at every holy Chief of the Apostles, does not at all mean yet it gives no priority or ‘primacy’ what- Service of our common worship in that each Apostle ceases to maintain his soever in terms of Apostolicity! Church, sometimes remain ‘hidden’ sug- own personal characteristics. This is true gestively or symbolically within simple regardless of whether one is called ‘First- In summing up all that has been men- ‘details’ (!) which, precisely for that rea- Called’, ‘Chief’, “Brother of the Lord’ or tioned, we underline the following most son, may easily escape us. Yet it is worth ‘the least’. Because the highest God-given basic truths concerning Apostolic By Archbishop paying special attention to detail (bearing privilege which unites them, is their com- Succession, which are the indispensable Stylianos in mind that the Greek term for ‘detail’ mon and indivisible ‘Apostolicity’! ‘chromosomes’ of the true Church: of Australia means the ‘fine part’), with the certainty that this will be of benefit.

Once we had commented on the wise observation of the French thinker THE UNDIVIDED Montesquieu that “the devil sits on the detail” by adding that “God is also not ‘COMMON - WEALTH’ absent from the detail”! Here we shall therefore draw the atten- OF THE APOSTLES tion of the faithful to a striking detail of the Great Vespers of the feast of the Apostle Andrew, the ‘First-Called’ (whose venera- ble memory is celebrated on 30th Not withstanding this, the Twelve a) Just as all the Apostles succeed the one November), and brother of the Apostle Disciples (symbolizing the Twelve Tribes and only God-Man, so too all Bishops suc- Peter. It concerns the three ‘Readings’ of of Israel and the Twelve Patriarchs) have ceed all the Apostles as a single and indi- the Vespers Service, which display a note- as a whole a unique normative value for visible Body. worthy, but also somewhat ‘silent’, testi- the gathering of the Church in historical mony! time. They predetermine and prescribe the b) None of the Apostles (neither the First- Synodical structure on the one hand, and Called Andrew nor the Head Apostle Given that we do not possess any the eschatological function of the entire Peter) is entitled to isolate or monopolize authentic writing of St Andrew (it is not Body of the faithful on the other. These the Truth and Succession of Christ. Nor is known whether he in fact left anything in ‘constants’ are necessary presuppositions one justified in teaching that he possesses writing), it was only natural that our so that those who are ‘called’ to this may the grace of Apostolicity given by the Holy Church would immediately turn to his have the assurance that they are continuing Spirit to a slightly ‘greater degree’ (!) than physical brother Peter. And so it justly the salvific work ‘of Christ throughout the the other Apostles. decided to choose for those Readings ages’. three great passages from the First General c) It is literally a blasphemy against the Epistle of Peter. The above explains why the Disciples Holy Spirit for one Bishop to dare believe wasted no time, immediately following the and proclaim himself a unique and For a proper interpretation and eval- loss of Judas, to fill a void by “casting lots” supreme bearer of Apostolic Succession, uation of this ‘detail’ of the Order of the for Matthias (Acts 1: 23-26). The fact that by referring to himself as ‘Vicarius Service, we should note the following: the Disciples of Christ, having been freed Christi’ (Representative of Christ), and to of every Pharisaic attachment to external describe his See as the only ‘Apostolic 1) The family relationship of Peter and forms, acted instantly to this ‘election’, See’, as if the other Sees that are occupied Andrew was undoubtedly the primary con- distinctly shows how significant they con- by canonically established Bishops are not tributing factor, but not however the sidered the symbolic number 12 to be in successors in full measure of the grace of main reason, for which the Church substi- reminding us of wholeness and fullness, Apostolic Succession! tuted the ‘voice’ of Andrew with the for which the ‘Church militant’ is continu- ‘voice’ of Peter in the Readings. ally obliged to struggle in the present There must eventually be a brave Christian world. purification of the model of an all-power- We will understand this more fully by sim- ful Rome concerning its ‘one’‘supreme’ ply asking: If Peter had written, instead of 3) It is precisely this wholeness and full- ‘universal’and ‘infallible’ Shepherd - his known General Epistles, merely some ness which makes us view the number 12 made through pseudoepigraphical ‘docu- practical manuals (with remedies for sick- not as a strictly mathematical or some- ments’ - based on the example of the nesses, gardening tips, botany etc.) as the how ‘magical’ quantity, but first and fore- ‘divinized’ idolatrous Roman Emperor! people of old with little education usually most as an ethical postulate. For only did, would we dare to use such writings as integrity can guarantee fullness. And only Only then will all Christendom, and the Readings within Vespers, even if they fullness enables genuineness and authen- humankind in general, recognize and enjoy were of the Apostle Peter? Certainly not! ticity. the infinite blessings ensured by the single and undivided ‘commonwealth’ of the Consequently it is the spiritual content, From all the above it becomes apparent Apostles of Christ. DECEMBER 2005 6/34 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/35 Facts & Stats Australian greenhouse emissions up At a glance... Australian greenhouse gas emissions ing decades. Its failure to ratify the Kyoto have increased 23 per cent over the last protocol is deplorable,” he said in a state- In 2005, some people wanted the word "brainstorm- 13 years, prompting environmental ment. ing" replaced by "thought shower" so as not to offend campaigners to call for urgent action. The UN report reveals Australia is far people with brain disorders. A report prepared by the Bonn-based from the worst offender with a number of They also wanted "deferred success" to replace "fail- United Nations Climate Change secretari- nations which have ratified the Kyoto pro- ure" so as not to embarrass those who don't succeed. at and released recently, ahead of the inter- tocol recording greater increases in green- Both phrases appear on a tongue-in-cheek list of the national climate conference in Montreal, house emissions. year's most politically correct words and phrases issued warned that the western world was losing Spain topped the list with a 41.7 per cent by Global Language Monitor, a nonprofit group that its grip on the climate change problem. increase, followed by Monaco (37.8), monitors language use. The report, covering the period between Portugal (36.7) and Greece (25.9). The phrase that topped this year's list was "misguid- 1990 and 2003, found Australia’s green- The United States, which also has not rat- ed criminals," one of several terms the BBC used so as house gas emissions had risen 23.3 per ified Kyoto, reported increased emissions not to use the word "terrorist" in describing those who cent on 1990 levels. of 13.3 per cent, while New Zealand, a carried out train and bus bombings in London that The Australian government’s target is to Kyoto signatory, performed only slightly killed 52 people in July, according to Paul JJ Payack, limit emissions increases to 108 per cent of better than Australia with a 22.5 per cent the head of Global Language Monitor. 1990 levels over the period 2008-2012. increase. He added: "The BBC attempts to strip away all emo- A spokeswoman for Environment Mini- are out of control. The government which UN researchers found that overall in the tion by using what it considers 'neutral' descriptions ster Ian Campbell said the Australian emis- has belatedly acknowledged that climate industrialised world, greenhouse gas emis- when describing those who carried out the bombings in sions figure was misleading because it change is a serious challenge for Australia sions were down 5.9 per cent in 2003 com- the London Tubes." failed to take into account changes in land has failed the community and should be pared to the 1990 levels. Second on the list was "Intrinsic Aptitude," a phrase use. condemned for its inaction,” she said in a The major reductions were achieved in used by Harvard University President Lawrence “The fact remains that Australia through statement.Senator Milne called on the gov- central and eastern Europe in the early Summers to explain why women might be underrepre- the government’s $1.8 billion package of ernment to declare what position it would 1990s when polluting communist era sented in engineering and science. The phrase met with measures to address climate change is one take at the Montreal talks and to declare industries were shut down as countries "deferred success" and Summers had to fight to keep to of a handful of countries in the world on whether it would finally ratify the Kyoto restructured their economies. his job. track to meet its Kyoto targets through protocol as a sign of good faith. The best performer was Lithuania which domestic action alone,” she said. Colin Brown, organiser of the Catholic recorded a decrease of 66.2 per cent. A Hong Kong health spa has added a desperate Australia has refused to ratify the Kyoto Earthcare conference in Canberra this Overall, the European Union recorded a spin to weight loss programs by literally setting its protocol. Greens senator Christine Milne weekend, also said the figures revealed a decrease of 1.4 per cent with the heavily customers on fire, a press report said. said the figures showed there had been decade of lost opportunity. industrialised Germany cutting emissions The Life of Life Healing Spa said it can trim down years of lost opportunity under the “The federal government has been miss- by 18.2 per cent and Britain by 13 per cent. any body part with its fire treatment, where the Howard government. ing in action in what is without doubt the client is massaged, smothered in Chinese herbs and “Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions largest crisis humans will face in the com- AAP wrapped in wet towels before being set alight. The spa's manager told the South China Morning Post that one female client had lost 15 cm off her stomach in a single treatment. Another lost nine kg after two weeks of daily visits. "It keeps you slim by detoxifying your body and by burning fat," manager Winnie Ng was quoted as saying. "It also eases internal humidity and rheumatism."

Israeli border officials on the lookout for arms smug- gling from Gaza uncovered more unexpected contra- band today - a truckload of fake kosher marshmallow snacks. The Chief Rabbinate, which ensures anything labelled as kosher complies with the Jewish dietary law, said the boxes of "krembos" were sent back because they had forged kosher seals. A spokeswoman for the Chief Rabbinate said Israel does not import any of its krembos. The round choco- late shells filled with flavoured marshmallow cream on a biscuit are one of the country's most popular winter snack foods. The Karni crossing from Gaza was reopened last week under a US-brokered deal to ease restrictions on the 1.4 million Palestinians living in the impoverished territory following Israel's withdrawal in September. Israel inspects all goods leaving Gaza closely, saying it must do so to prevent the smuggling of weapons or suicide bombers by militants waging an uprising. Palestinian businesses complain that checks cause costly delays and sometimes mean perishable goods are ruined before they can be exported to Israel, the West Bank or beyond.

Britons are becoming more forgetful, missing birthdays and meetings and losing house keys, wal- lets and purses, according to a new report. A survey of 1,500 adults showed one in two had lost their keys at least once this year, while almost as many had mislaid a purse or bag. Half had forgotten a pin number or computer pass- word and almost two out of three had locked them- selves out of their homes. Men were more likely to forget people's names while women were most likely to forget directions. Barry Sheverin of lockout emergency service sparekeys.com, which conducted the research, said: "These days there are just so many things to remember that inevitably we forget some of them." DECEMBER 2005 8/36 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Windows to Orthodoxy The Joyous Feast of Christmas: Insights from Matthew 2:1-12

Introductory Remarks “When King Herod heard the Magi. Indeed it would be no overstatement line of progeny. The joyous feast of Christmas, its this, he wasfrightened to claim that the adoration of Jesus by the astounding beauty and profound mystery can [åôáñÜ÷èç], and all Gentiles, and His rejection by the house of The journey of the Magi to never, ultimately, be fully exhausted in any Jerusalem with him” (Mt 2:3).2 Israel is at the foreground of the entire Bethlehem is described as one which was theological treatise since that festive event cel- Very simply put, this verse tells the reader that Matthean Gospel and culminates in the pas- divinely guided, in that the Magi’s quest to ebrates the birth, in the flesh, of the heavenly not only Herod, but indeed all of Jerusalem’s sion narrative. Whereas one would have find Jesus was directed by a star – the very and eternal Son of God. That is to say, citizens were troubled by the birth of Jesus, the expected the house of Israel to receive Jesus same star which they had formerly seen in the Christmas is a proclamation of the birth, as a royal babe. The first point to be made is that with open arms, since He was of Jewish line- East upon setting off for their journey. This man of the transcendent One, who, having the English translation, of the original Greek age – indeed from Davidic progeny - the star, which now went before them, empha- been ‘begotten before all ages’, from His word for åôáñÜ÷èç, as ‘was frightened’ is far Gospel narrates an entirely opposite phenome- sized God’s continued providence not only for heavenly Father, nonetheless entered human too weak. The Greek word used in this case non. In this case, it was the foreigners who set the commencement of the Magi’s journey but history being incarnate ‘of the Holy Spirit and signifies not only a state of fear, but a condi- off on a long and arduous journey to meet the also for their entire sojourn. Furthermore, the the Virgin Mary’ without a human father. tion in which Herod became deeply disturbed One, for whom the Jewish nation had long- star showed the cosmic importance of Jesus’ Furthermore, He became a ‘curse for us’ so as and unsettled or totally shaken up and thrown awaited, exhibiting, in this way an overtly birth in that, even the stars – i.e., created nature to redeem us from the ‘curse of the law’ (cf into agitation and confusion at the news of the keen receptivity to Jesus, one not evident in general - paid tribute to Jesus. In having Gal 3:13). Accordingly the message of birth of Jesus. Now, as to the attitude of amongst the Israelites. In setting up this delib- experienced God’s continual presence Christmas could easily be summarised as a Herod3, one is not surprised at such a reaction. erate contrast (synkrisis) between the Magi throughout their journey, coupled with the fact celebration marking the world’s salvation Since he was the appointed king of the Jews, it and the Jews, the Gospel emphasizes, in this that they were about to see the child, the Magi through the Son of God, who became a human is quite natural that he would have become way, not only the openness of God to all are depicted in the Gospel as being filled with being for our sake, so that through Him we profoundly terrified upon hearing the news of nations but also anticipates Jerusalem’s rejec- joy: might become divine sons of the living God by the birth of, what he would have considered to tion and persecution of the Messiah in the “There, ahead of them, went the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in us. And as be, a rival king. Under no circumstance would Gospel (cf Mt 23:37-39). Theologically speak- the star that they had seen at children of God, we too can claim to have Herod have tolerated homage being paid to ing, the Gospel clearly states that the new-born its rising, until it stopped become ‘heirs of God and joint heirs with another king as this would have been an indi- king would embrace the entire world and be over the place where the Christ’ (Rom 8:17) having obtained the ulti- cator to him of his imminent demise. Indeed in king for all, irrespective of class, gender or child was. When they saw mate freedom – a freedom even from the verse sixteen of the same chapter, the Gospel nationality. In this sense, not only is the propri- that the star had stopped, bounds of decay and death (cf Rom 8:19). It is records not only the fury of the frenzied Herod ety of the worship of the Son of God for all the they were overwhelmed precisely for this reason that Christmas is a at being tricked by the Magi, who had returned nations clearly underscored but also the fact with joy [å÷Üñçóáí ÷á- matter of life and death since Christ’s birth back to their homeland another way but also that God’s salvation is a universal one, a bless- ñÜí ìåãÜëçí óöüäñá]” bestows upon the world the possibility for the Herod’s subsequent ordering to have all inno- ing for all nations and not just Israel, as indeed (Mt 2:9-10). world to exist in the eternal mode of God, out- cent boys two years of age or under killed.4 God had formerly promised to Abraham and side of time, space, corruption and death. the prophets. Thus, the Gospel beautifully cap- The joy of the Magi’s encounter with the new- The question, however, which arises, tures the universalism of Christianity in the born infant is emphatically expressed. Exegesis of Mathew 2:1-12 and which incidentally often goes unnoticed is Magi who prefigure the inclusivity, on the part Whereas St Matthew could have simply writ- Structure why ‘all Jerusalem’ was also deeply troubled. of God in His koinonia with the entire cosmos. ten that the Magi were joyous [simply with The wonder and awe of Christmas is On the contrary, one would have anticipated one word - å÷Üñçóáí], he added three extra beautifully depicted in the Gospel reading an eager expectation on their part, since the Matthew 2:9-12 words – namely, ÷áñÜí ìåãÜëçí óöüäñá [lit- assigned for the Divine Liturgy on Christmas Old Testament prophets had foretold the com- The gospel passage continues by erally ‘they rejoiced with an exceedingly great day – that is, the account from Matthew 2:1- ing of a Messiah who would deliver the house noting Bethlehem of Judea as the birthplace of joy] – to emphasize the extremely heightened 12. Divided into two parts, according to the of Israel from slavery and bondage.5 However, Jesus. That this was the commonly accepted sense of joy upon meeting the long-awaited location at which the events took place – that as the prophet Isaiah had predicted, the com- belief regarding where Jesus, as the descen- Messiah. In finding the One whom they were is, Jerusalem and Bethlehem - the biblical peri- ing of the Messiah would be greeted with dent of David, would be born is suggested seeking, they were at once delighted by, and cope recounts the coming of the Magi1 from indifference or spiritual complacency since the throughout the New Testament Scriptures – captivated at, the glorious vision of heaven’s the East to Jerusalem (Mt 2:1-8), enquiring to Jews had become entrenched in their deceitful one example being the following: encounter with the world. Indeed, it is this fes- Herod about the whereabouts of Jesus, ‘the ways opting for slavery with which they were “Has not the scripture said that tive air of the celebratory character of king of the Jews’ and their subsequent journey all too familiar, instead of the greatest gift of the Messiah is descended from Da- Christmas which is especially evident in the to Bethlehem to worship the vulnerable ‘child’ freedom: vid and comes from Bethlehem, Liturgical tradition of the Orthodox Church. and offer Him the well-known gifts of gold, “They shall compensate for every the village where David lived?” frankincense and myrrh (Mt 2:9-12). Further garment that has been acquired by (Jn 7:42). The result of this overwhelming joy reflecting on the structure of the passage, the deceit and all clothing with restitu Bethlehem, also known as Ephra- led them to ‘worship’ Jesus – an action exclu- two main parts of the narrative could alterna- tion; and they shall be willing, thah, and meaning ‘the house of bread’was sit- sively reserved to the one God in the Old tively be divided in terms of their description even if they had been burnt with uated on a high fertile grey limestone ridge Testament Scriptures. Indeed the threefold of the two encounters of the Magi with two fire. For unto us a child is born, which had a summit at each end resembling an repetition of the Greek word for ‘worship’ - ‘kings’ – the false kings of the Jews, Herod, unto us a son is given” (Is 9:5-6 elongated ‘u’ shape figure. It was approxima- ðñïóêõíÝù (Mt 2:2, 8 & 11) - climaxing in and Jesus, the genuine royal babe in LXX). tely ten kilometers to the south of Jerusalem verse eleven, reinforces the honour and wor- Bethlehem. In more detail, the first part of the Unlike the wise men from Persia, who had and a considerably insignificant town. How- ship rendered to the infant Jesus, thereby infancy drama depicts: a) the journey of the been attracted by the birth of ‘Jesus, the king ever its importance lay in its long history, espe- declaring in the strongest possible way not Magi, coming from the East in order to find of the Jews’, the house of Israel did not even cially since Bethlehem was the city from whe- only Jesus’ royalty but also His divinity. The the newly born king of the Jews (Mt 2:1-2); b) seek to ask where, let alone follow the Magi to re David had come and it was from this city profundity of this worship is heightened when their meeting with Herod who gathered the find their newly born King. One would have that God would send the great deliverer to His one remains mindful of the fact that what the chief priests and scribes so that he could learn expected, even purely out of self-interest and people, Jesus Christ, David’s greater son as Magi saw were not majestic palaces decorated where the Messiah was to be born (Mt 2:3-6); gain, that they would, at least follow so as to suggested for example by the prophet Micah: in marble, or a mother crowned like a queen and lastly, c) Herod’s instruction to the Magi verify the truth of the suggestions made by the “But you, O Bethlehem of with a diadem or still more, a royal babe to return back to Jerusalem so as to divulge to Magi since this newly born king was claimed Ephrathah, who are one of clothed in purple and gold, and holding a scep- him where the new born ‘babe’ was so that he to be their king – i.e., ‘the king of the Jews’ - the little clans of Judah, tre. Instead, what they saw was a carpenter’s too could allegedly pay homage to Him (Mt who would rescue them from slavery. One can from you shall come forth wife dressed in modest clothes; a ‘house’ (Mt 2:7-8). The second section relates the events, only imagine, from this, the extent to which for me one who is to rule in 2:11) fit more for animals than people, and a which took place in Bethlehem, namely: a) the they had been consumed by their daily, human Israel, whose origin is from new-born king dressed in swaddling clothes Magi who followed the star to Bethlehem (Mt and earthly affairs thereby remaining entirely of old, from ancient days” (cf Lk 2:12). Yet, their doxological attitude 2:9-10); b) their joy and worship of the infant apathetic. It is precisely for this reason that St (Mic 5:2). was able to transform the ‘strange mystery’ and c) finally their dream not to return to Matthew openly displayed his vehemence According to the prophecy, the significance of right before their eyes, so that they could now Herod upon leaving Bethlehem (Mt 2:11-12) against Israel and especially its religious estab- Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, even though His behold it in an entirely different light – as the to go back to their homeland. lishment. home was Nazareth, lies in that it fulfilled very encounter and unity of the heavenly Micah’s prediction, thereby further substanti- realm with that of the earthly. And so, at the Matthew 2:1-8 Following on from this, it could be ating Jesus’ royal Davidic descent and under- sight of, what the world could call a ‘seeming- In the first section, the biblical said that the most salient detail in this part of scoring yet again that He was the awaited sav- ly unworthy boy’ lay the grandeur and majesty account recounts that, upon hearing the news the narrative, is this strikingly contrasting reac- ing Messiah. That is to say, the birth of Jesus of the divinity, the ineffable grandeur of God. of the birth of Jesus, King Herod became tion, to Jesus, between those residing in in Bethlehem served to identify him as the ‘frightened’: Jerusalem and the non-Israelites, in this case long-awaited Messiah who was of David’s DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/37 Windows to Orthodoxy

Cont. from previous page Bethlehem of Judea, wise that is, God the Father who willed that Jesus be dence pointing to the cruelty of Herod, much can be learnt from the men… came to Jerusalem, born into the world by the Holy Spirit. This is historian Josephus in Ant. 14-18. 4 Interestingly, the Patristic tradition understood the Egyptian Such a depiction by St Matthew, not asking, “Where is the child in line with Orthodox Trinitarian theology, Pharaoh who sought to kill Moses, ‘the first redeemer’ as a typolo- only beautifully brought to the fore the reality who has been born king [ï which would want to speak, at the same time, gy of Herod’s attempt to kill Jesus, the second Redeemer. of Christ’s divinity – portrayed in the Magi’s ôå÷èåßò âáóéëåýò] of the of the distinctive actions of the Father and the 5 Indeed from this pericope, the words ‘king’ and ‘Messiah’ are used interchangeably signifying Jesus’ Messianic role. worship of the child Jesus, but also His Jews? For we observed his Holy Spirit in the incarnation of the historical 6 Cf Is 60:6-7: “A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young humanity - the emphasis, for example on the star at its rising, and have person of Jesus Christ. And so, it is not unrea- camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come. ordinariness of the boy Jesus with His mother come to pay him homage” sonable to suggest that the linguistic variance They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall proclaim the praise of the LORD. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered to (cf Mt 2:11). That this Theanthropic (Mt 2:1-2). could serve to betray the divine and human you, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you; they shall be Christological theme is evident throughout the Since the English translation of the two differ- natures of Jesus, the new born child. acceptable on my altar, and I will glorify my glorious house”. 7 Lity, Vespers of Christmas. pericope can be seen by at least two other ref- ent Greek verbal forms for ‘to be born’ is the 8 Walter Bauer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and erences: firstly, the symbolism of the gifts same - even though in Greek they are different, Concluding Remarks Other Early Christian Literature, 2nd ed. (Chicago: CUP, 1958), bestowed by the Magi to Jesus and secondly, ‘ãåííÜù’ and ‘ôßêôù’ are used - there is 155. From all the above it can be conclud- 9 Cf also the use of the verb “ãåííÜù” in the first chapter of the choice of certain words employed by St accordingly nothing particularly instructive, ed that the joy and marvellous wonder of Matthew’s Gospel which lists the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah. Matthew which bring to light the divine- from the English, which could show the Christmas lies in that the wall of partition Also cf the Christmas Katavasia of the third ode: “To the Son who human ‘character’ of Christ. As to the specific divine-human qualities of Jesus. This gives was begotten of the Father [åê Ðáôñüò ãåííçèÝíôé] thout change dividing heaven and earth was destroyed once before all ages, and in the last times was without seed made flesh of gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh - itself rise to the following questions: why are there and for all, thereby opening up and inaugurat- the Virgin...”. the fulfilment of a prophecy from Isaiah6 - they two different Greek words indicating the idea ing God’s heavenly kingdom within the world. betray both the divinity and humanity of Jesus: ‘to be born’? Is there any significance in this or That is, in becoming a human being, Jesus gold symbolizing royalty; frankincense, divin- are two different words employed purely for Christ bestowed upon the human person the For the bibliophiles... ity; and myrrh, a symbol of the mortification stylistic variation? Strictly speaking, the literal possibility of becoming ‘god’ by grace (2Pt Painting the soul: icons, death of human flesh, and therefore the child’s meaning of ‘ãåííÜù’ is ‘I become the father 1:4). Indeed, in the birth of Jesus Christ, the humanity. In a hymn sung at the Vespers of’ in the sense of begetting or engendering8 mysterious wonder of the divine Godhead was masks and shrouds. Service of Christmas, we note: whereas ‘ôßêôù’ signifies the role of the wo- decisively revealed and experienced giving the By Robin Cormack (Reaktion Books) “When the Lord Jesus was born in man who gives birth to or bears a child. world a vision of the invisible, ineffable and Bethlehem of Judah, Magi coming indescribable God. That is, bearing the express Written with much confidence, this paper- from the east worshipped God made Without excluding the assertion to a image of the Father (cf Heb 1:3), Jesus Christ’s back’s importance is due primarily to the man. And eagerly opening their linguistic variance outrightly, and aware of the birth in human history, bestowed upon the fact that its author, Professor of the History treasures, they offered to Him pre dangers of drawing subsequent theological entire cosmos the possibility of beholding the of Art in the University of London is well- cious gifts: refined gold, as to the conclusions purely from linguistic data, a sug- grandeur of God. And this ‘strange paradox’of known as a teacher in the Classical, king of the ages, and frankincense, as gestion, which might explain this variance, but God becoming human was not an event which Byzantine and Medieval Section of the to the God of all; and myrrh they which is, in no way binding is the following: concerned only the past, but is significant for Courtauld Institute of Art. As such, offered to the Immortal, as to one, knowing, from both the Biblical and Patristic the present, and indeed for the future of the Cormack’s influence has extended way three days dead. Come all you traditions, that Jesus was born in time from a world, since, by it, the whole of the created beyond England’s shores, especially to nations, and let us worship Him who human mother but without a human father, human nature was taken out of the narrow and Australia, where many of our tertiary insti- was born to save our souls”.7 since He was ‘incarnate of the Holy Spirit and death-begetting boundaries of isolation and tutions employ English born and educated Therefore in both cases we see that the gifts the Virgin Mary’ as the Nicene-Constantino- inspired with the optimism of deification by academics. An important and influential are an indication that Jesus was both perfect politan Symbol of Faith states, could not the grace. It is this unprecedented joy of God who text, this book contains observations that are God and perfect man. first phrase in verse two, which states that is now Emmanuel, that is, God with us – and sometimes at odds with an insider’s ‘after Jesus was born’, using the Greek verb indeed forever with us - that the feast of (Orthodox Christian’s) view, experience and The divine and human natures in the ‘ãåííçèÝíôïò’ be an indication, that in the Christmas invites all faithful to experience. knowledge. one person of the baby Jesus are further birth or incarnation of the Son of God, it was Philip Kariatlis emphasised by St Matthew in certain words God the Father who willed that this take place Academic Secretary and Associate Lecturer The Greek Myths used to describe Jesus as the newborn king – by the Holy Spirit.9 Understood in this way, it St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological By Robert Graves (Folio Society) especially in Mt 2:1-2 - the words in question would be said that the verb ‘ãåííçèÝíôïò’in College verse 2 is a reference to the role of God the being those which refer to ‘being born’ – Robert Graves’ presentations of Greek ãåííÜù and ôßêôù: Father in begetting the Son of God by the Holy 1 Even though too much is not known about the Magi, it can be said myths and legends are well-known amongst Spirit. Consequently, the birth of the pre-eter- that they were members of a Persian priestly class whose knowl- “In the time of King Herod, English-language speakers, and until recent after Jesus was born [ôïõ äå nal Son of God in history would rightly be edge of astronomy gave them insights unknown to other nations. Their Persian origin however have not gone unquestioned – for times would possibly be the only version Éçóïý ãåííçèÝíôïò understood from its Trinitarian perspective: ] in example St Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist believed that likely to have been read by children growing the Magi were from Arabia (Dial. 77.4; 78.1; 106,4). Clement of Alexandria believed that they were from Persia (Strom. 1.15.71.4). up in Australia. As with any books from the In the Liturgical tradition they are identified as wise men coming Folio Society, this two-volume presentation from Persia. In the early Middle Ages, in the West the names of the Magi came to be identified as follows: Casper, Melchior and is beautifully bound and typeset, on quality Balthasar. paper. Short notes, or comments, that have uestions & Answers 2 Cf the King James version which reads: “When Herod the king Q been drawn together from Graves’ earlier had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him” (Mt 2:3). editions follow each of the stories. Some of When does the Christmas lent tians3:23-29; Luke 2:1-20. Sixth Hour: Isaiah 3 Herod, the most influential member of an Idumean family, had his theories, such as that which suggests, for begin, and how do we as Ortho- 7:10-16; 8:1-4; 8:9-10; Hebrews 1:10-2:3; deeply immersed himself in Jewish affairs of the first century B.C. example, where the worship of Aphrodite Q and A.D., and had been appointed King of the Jews by the Roman dox Christians prepare our- Matthew 2:1-12. Ninth Hour Isaiah 9:6-7; Senate in 40B.C. He was a skilful and masterful politician who was first entered Greece, are contentious. Easy selves for this Lenten period? Hebrews 2:11-18: Matthew 2:13-23. And able to gain control of Jerusalem in 37B.C. by playing off Roman to read, and a delight to hold and to look at. and Jewish factions against each other. He was known for his bru- Are there any books that we could read from the Christmas Liturgy Galatians 4:4-7 tality, even to members of his own family. Beyond the Biblical evi during this time? If so, please list them. A.C.

According to the present-day rules ****** of the Orthodox Church, the From the Orthodox Church: 455 Questions A Christmas Lent (fast) begins forty and Answers, days before Christmas. Since by Stanley S. Harakas, published by Light and Christmas is a feast on the fixed liturgical Life. cycle of the Church and is celebrated on December 25 each year, this means that the END OF YEAR TAX RETURNS Christmas fast begins on November 15 annu- If you have any questions about the ally. Orthodox faith which you would like MOBILE ACCOUNTANTS This is the beginning of the Christmas answered in the VEMA, send them to PERSONAL TAX RETURNS FROM $50 Lenten period. The purpose of the Christmas COMPANY/ TRUST TAX RETURNS fast is to spiritually prepare us to celebrate Vema -Q.&A., Christmas. In order to do this there are two FROM $300 general approaches which Christians can use P.O.Box M59 Marrickville as they select their reading for this period. BAS/ BOOKEEPING Our reading can, first focus on the meaning South, FROM $50 of Christmas. You can’t do better than to start NSW 2204 with the Bible. Here are some readings from (Prices GST excl) the Service of the Hours, and the Divine Liturgy of Christmas. From the First Hours or e-mail them to: Micah 5:2-4; Hebrews 1:1-12; Matthew 1:18- CALL JOHN ON: (03) 9808 0386 / 0414 521 972 [email protected] 25. Third Hour: Baruch 3:36-4:4; Gala- HIGHEST QUALITY SERVICE AT REASONABLE RATES 114500 DECEMBER 2005 10/38 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/39 Feature The Feast of Epiphany: The Feast of Lights 20 Rev. George Mastrantonis the end of the persecutions, the contents of these Ephraim, Chrysostom and others relate that events were developed in the observance of the the faithful, before the baptism of the catechu- The Witness of the Son of God feast of Epiphany which is called the Feast of mens, received some of the sanctified water Lights. The origin of the observance of the cele- which they took to their homes. This service took January the 6th is recorded in the annals of the bration of the Epiphany is to be found in the activ- place on the evening or, rather, at about midnight, Christian Church as an ancient celebration of an ities of Gnosticism. Its fundamental principle is of January 5th. And until today the Eastern event in the life of Jesus Christ which is consid- the idea that individual salvation comes through Church retains this Vesper service with the ered as the beginning of His official dedication to knowledge, gnosis, rather than through faith or Sanctification of the Waters, which, however, is His Divine Mission in the presence and manifes- works. performed on the morning of January 5th. In the tation of the Triune Christian God, the Father and The 6th of January was designated as the feast Church the Vespers is always considered as the the Son and the Holy Spirit. This celebration is day of Epiphany because on that day was the beginning of the next day. called Epiphany, a combined Greek word which birthday of Aeon, the patron god of Alexandria. For this reason the Vespers of January 5th is is derived from epi: to and phainein: to show, to The Gnostics had designated Christ as one of the actually the beginning of the feast-day of the 6th show forth, to shine upon; the noun is epiphaneia, Aeons in their elaborate system. of January. meaning appearance, manifestation. This Feast In opposition to these heretics, it appears that the It was the night before the 6th of January in the included the Birth of Jesus Christ (that is, the Orthodox Church acted to protect its followers early centuries of the Christian Church, when Incarna-tion of the Logos), His Baptism (that is, from this falsification by defining the Theophany hundreds of neophytes were waiting their turn to His dedication in a human manner), and the of the Holy Trinity, that is, the appearance of God step down, some five steps, into the water and to appearance of the Father and the Holy Spirit-the during the Baptism of Christ.16 The earliest defi- be baptized in the name of the Father and of the first and only united appearance of the true nite evidence of this celebration is given by Son and of the Holy Spirit. Holding burning Christian God. Zaharias, the father of John the Ammianus Marcelli-nus17 where this pagan torches in their hands, men and women of various Baptist, “filled with the Holy Spirit”, said in antic- Roman historian mentions that Julian the streams and walks of life were together. Their fig- ipation, “whereby the dayspring from on high Apostate participated in this feastday in Vienne of ures were illuminated from within, from their hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in Gaul. The Orthodox Church gave to this Feast its conscience, after their training in knowing the true darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our correct significane and meaning and celebrated God and practicing their faith in worshiping Him feet into the way of peace.”1 purposely this Feast on the same date to counter- and helping their brethren in His name. The story of Epiphany is related by the first three act the false celebration of the Gnostics. In all With the prevailing of the baptism of infants, Evangelists, Matthew, Mark and Luke, from the probability, Epiphany was introduced to Gaul, there is no order of catechumens and consequent- Baptist’s proclamation of the arrival of the Savior, with its Greek name, by St. Athanasius (336), ly the practice of baptism at midnight of January to the baptism of Christ and to the witness of the coming from Alexandria. 5th has been eliminated. The sanctification of the Father and the descending of “the Spirit as a It is known that in the East the Nativity of Christ Water’s, though, has prevailed throughout the Dove.”2 The Evangelist John, on the other hand, was celebrated together with Epiphany on the 6th centuries; it is now a custom that, on the one hand, we dedicate the day. preserves John’s witness of the divinity of Christ.3 of January, while in the West the Nativity was cel- the people take sanctified Waters to their homes We hold torches as those brethren and martyrs John the Baptist proclaimed the arrival of the ebrated before Epiphany be-came known to them. and on the other hand, some of the Priests visit the of the early Christian centuries, a great many, of Savior, saying that “one mightier than I is coming This fact seems to ac-count for the difference in homes of his parishioners and reverently sprinkle whom became torches themselves rather than after Me”;4 that “He will baptize you with the the content of Epi-phany as given by the East and the homes or fields with sanctified Water. deny Christ. Holy Spirit and with fire;”5 and “will gather the the West. That is, in the East, the celebration cen- (January 5th). We hold candles, and our hearts burn as the wheat into his barn.”6 The dialogue between Jesus tered in the Theophany of Christ witnessed by the We have related the details on the origin of the hearts of those two blessed persons who walked and John the Baptist resulted in the recognition other two Persons of the Holy Trinity and in con- feast of Epiphany and the formation of its ceremo- with the risen Christ to Emmaus. Yes, it is the and proclamation of Jesus’ divinity and mis- nection with the Birth of Christ. the Arme-nian nial order, first, to emphasize that this feast is most “Feast of Lights”, the lights which illuminate our sion.(2a) Monophysites, who have preserved the ancient ancient; secondly, to point out the underlying conscience and our Christian way of life. When Jesus had been baptized ... behold”7 the tradition of combining the Nativity with meaning of Epiphany in the East and the West, It is rather the Feast of The Light. “I am the appearance of the Holy Trinity took place: (i) the Epiphany, still celebrate the Nativity of Christ on and, thirdly, to become-familiar with the events Light”, Jesus said. He did not say: “I will show the “heaven was opened, and (ii) the Holy Spirit the evening of January 5th and Epiphany with the which transpired during the original Epiphany. light to you”, but “I am the Light.” It is not a new descended upon him (Jesus) in bodily shape with Sanctification of the Waters on the 6th of January. theory of life; it is mainly the knowledge of the a dove, and (iii) a voice come from heaven which In the Western Church, Epiphany is dedicated to The Significance of Epiphany true God which makes life as it is stated in the said, “Thou art my beloved Son; in Thee I am the commemoration of three events: (i) the bap- for us Today prayer of our Lord to His Heavenly Father, “And well pleased,” as St. Luke relates divine event8 tism of Jesus; (ii) the visit of the Wisemen to this is eternal life, that they know thee the only along with the other two sacred writers. The bap- Bethlehem, and (iii) the miracle of Cana (the What meaning does the annual repetition of true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast 21 tism of Jesus Christ was not “with water unto changing of the water into wine), by which the Epiphany have for our faith and for our Christian sent”. repentance”9 as was John’s; the Divine and sinless Western Church celebrated the manifestation of life? If we repeat the “Feast of Lights” for a mere One needed neither repentance nor remission of Christ to the world and His power to perform mir- sentimental impression, surely we betray the NOTES sins. Therefore, “John forbade him (Jesus to be acles. treasure of this great observance. baptized) saying, I have need to be baptized of In the East, the Nativity, after being introduced The feast of Epiphany is not held only as a com- 1. Luke 1,78b-79 thee, and comest thou to me?”10 Furthermore, the from the West, was designated to be observed also memoration of a historical event in the life of 2. a. The Baptist proclaims the Savior’s arrival: important statement of Jesus to John the Baptist on December 25th, probably by the heretic Arians Jesus, not merely for the attractiveness of the arti- Matt 3,11-12; Mark1,6b- implies that Jesus felt that baptism was not neces- in Antioch. This happened about fifty years after ficial atmosphere of lights, music, and poetry. The 8; Luke 3,15-18. b. The baptism of Christ: The sary for Him, but He submits to the rite because, Epiphany was designated. In fact, St. Basil and St. recurrent celebration of Epiphany has a great spir- Father’s witness and the appearance of the Holy “it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness”;11 that Gregory had attempted to differentiate between itual significance far beyond either of these. It is Spirit: Mat. 3,13-17; Mark 1,8-11; Luke 3,21-22 is, all people (us) should submit their duty and the two celebrations by imposing the name not the mere commemoration of a historical event 3. John 1,29-34 obligation to God. “Theophany” on the Birth of Christ, December because in the Christian faith everything is pres- 4. Mark 1,7 The reason that John the Baptist was “baptizing 25th, and keeping the name “Epiphany” for the ent, here and now, for our Lord Jesus Christ is 5. Matt 3,11 with water” was “that he (the Lamb of God) celebration on the 6th of January. However, they with us here and now, our inseparable Companion 6. Matt 3,17 might be revealed to Israel”, and John bore wit- were unsuccessful. and Comforter. 7. Matt 3,16 ness to this Divine Event, fulfilling his mission In the Orthodox Church, in contrast to the The historical event is but a motive and remem- 8. Luke 3, 21b-22 and saying, “I have seen and have borne witness heretics, the celebration of Epiphany took on an brance, for the Person of Christ is ever present, 9. Matt 3,11 that this is the Son of God.”13 By this witness the elaborate appearance for two reasons: first, in and His Grace is not merely a memory of history. 10. Matt 3,14 Church treasured and established the belief that opposition to the corresponding celebrations of Secondly, the physical environment, artistic or 11. Matt 3,15 “When Thou, 0 Lord, was baptized in Jordan, the the heretics and pagans; and, secondly, due to the otherwise, many times helps the believer to 12. John 1,34 worship of the Trinity was manifested”14 which meaning of the feast-day itself, as the worship of approach his goal-the vivid worship of our Lord, 13. John 1,34 belief has remained as the cornerstone of the the true God of the Holy Trinity, the catechumens despite the danger of making this environment an 14. Dismissal Hymn of Epiphany Christian Church ever since. All believers in the came to be baptized on this day, end in itself. 15. 1 Cor. 10,4 past “drank of that spiritual Rock that followed Seberian, Bishop of Gavalon,18 remarks that in the Holding torches and candles in our hands and 16. Note: Clemon of Alexandria states that the them; and that Rock was Christ”15 as the Apostle Church there was great abundance of light on this with our voices and feelings of devotion, together Basilidians observed the feast of the Baptism on Paul aptly unites the past, the present and the feastday because the Christians carried lighted we raise a symbol to the living Christian God-the Jan 6, but his words seem distinctly to imply that future in the person of Christ as the God-Man and candles. The same is mentioned by Ephraim the Holy Trinity, the Father and the Son and the Holy the feast was not observed in Catholic circles yet. Godhead. Syrian in his hymn to Epiphany (9th verse). Spirit, -as He appeared at the moment of the (Strom i,21) Because of this abundance of light, the feast of Baptism of Jesus Christ, as He has been deter- 17. 21,2 and about 400 A.D. History of the Celebration Epiphany became known as “The Feast of mined by the Church in the Creed, as He is 18. Graeca Patrologiae (G.P.) 65,25 of Epiphany Lights”. (Steph. 105a). Gregory of Nazianzos, accepted by every believing Christian, as the liv- 19. G.P. 36,360 delivered his well-known homily “On the ing God, the God Who harkens to our voices, the 20. G.P. 49,365 The events of the Baptism of Jesus Christ and Lights”19 saying, “yesterday celebrating on the God Whom we beseech to accept us in commun- 21. John 17,3 the appearance of the Holy Trinity, as they are bright day of the lights... today we shall speak on ion, Whom we hope to have as our Companion, recorded in the Bible, were held with reverence baptism”. Since that unforgettable celebration the Who is our Comforter, Who is the Alpha and Copyright: © 1990-1996 Greek Orthodox and admiration over the period of the years. With event has been called the “Feast of Lights.” Omega of our Faith. To Him, with fear and love, Archdiocese of America DECEMBER 2005 12/40 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 13/41 DECEMBER 2005 14/42 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

CLINICAL INSIGHTS INTO HEALTH AND NATURAL SOLUTIONS

- Dietary sources: guava, red cap- sicum, Brussel sprouts, citrus juices, papayas, kiwi fruit, blackcurrents, mango, cabbage, broccoli, strawber- BY CHRISTINA SCALONE* ries, lychees, oranges, sprouts BHSc, Dip. Bot. Med, Dip. • Vitamin E – is also an antioxidants, protects Hom, Dip. Nut our cell walls against chemical damage. - Dietary sources: wheatgerm and wheatgerm oil, soybean oil, CANCER AND NATURAL almonds, sunflower seeds, walnuts, cashews, avocado MEDICINE • Vitamin D – affects bones, various hormones, reproductive function and immune function. Humans have been suffering from cancer - Mackerel, herring, kipper, salmon, since early ages. Several ancient civilizations sardines, eggs, butter, fortified milks, described cancer in their writings and pictures. cod liver oil It is also one of the most feared illnesses. • Folic acid – folic acid has been shown to The entire human body is made up of cells, reduce the incidence of lung, cervix, rectum, each of which contains its own genetic materi- colon, oesophagus and stomach. It is thought al, or DNA - a long string of molecules that that folic acid keeps cells from mutating and tells the cell what to do. In a healthy body, cells proliferating. Apart from that it also lowers the divide at a controlled rate so as to grow and risk of heart disease and stroke. It regulates the repair damaged tissues and replace dying cells. body’s production and use of homocysteine, This predetermined rate of cell division is what an amino acid like compound that in excess keeps our bodies healthy. If cells keep multi- amount can contribute to the build up of plying when new ones are not necessary, a plaque in the blood vessels. mass or tissue called a growth or tumour is - Dietary sources: green leafy vegeta- formed. A tumour can be either benign or bles, enriched cereals, lentils and malignant. Benign tumours are not cancer- other legumes ous. They can occur anywhere in the body and • Selenium – another potent antioxidant. generally do not pose a threat to health, do not - Dietary sources: brazil nuts, poul- metastasize (spread to other parts of the body) try, wholegrains, fish, molasses, and usually do not grow back if removed. cashews, eggs, organic onion, garlic Malignant tumours are cancerous. They are and broccoli usually serious and can be life-threatening. carcinogens. Lifestyle changes such as diet, • Reduce the consumption of foods that con- The immune system appears to play a criti- Malignant tumours grow uncontrollably, inter- quitting smoking and reducing exposure to the tain natural carcinogens, as they increase the cal role in preventing tumour development. To fere with normal metabolic and organ func- sun can help prevent many cancers. risk of cancer, e.g. smoked, pickled or barbe- keep our immune system healthy, it is impor- tioning and have ability to metastasize and • Some studies have suggested an association cued foods. tant to have good healthy diet with variety of invade other tissues. between high fruit and vegetables and reduced • Reduce saccharin, some artificial colours, foods as mentioned above, avoiding foods that If a portion of a cell’s DNA is damaged, the risk of various cancers. Eat a diet that includes nitrates and nitrites – which are high in bacon, can damage our body as well as avoiding stress cell can become abnormal. This is the initiat- grains, nuts and seeds, plenty of cruciferous corned beef, ham and salami. as much as possible. One can learn relaxation ing factor, which is known as “mutation”. vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cab- • Research suggests that daily exposure to a and stress management techniques. When the abnormal cell divides, it forms new bage, cauliflower and spinach. Also consume limited amount (about 20 minutes per day) of In addition to the recommendations given cells that contain a photocopy of the damaged yellow and deep-orange vegetables such as sunlight (a good source of vitamin D) may already, a positive mental attitude is important. genetic material. This is an ongoing process carrots, pumpkin, squash and yams. Apples, reduce the risk of some cancers. Some tips to help you cope include: occurring constantly within our bodies. Most berries (blueberries, raspberries and strawber- • Reduction of weight - Obesity has been of the time, our bodies have the ability to ries), Brazil nuts, cherries, grapes (red), found to affect the levels of insulin and oestro- Learn to and make time to give and receive destroy these abnormal cells (DNA repair sys- legumes, plums all help to prevent cancer. gen in the body. High levels of oestrogen have love in your life. tem) and maintain a sort of cellular equilibri- Berries protect DNA from damage. Many of been linked to cancer of breast and uterus. Learn to listen and share feelings with um. If a crucial portion of the DNA is the plant pigments in red, yellow, orange and Insulin is a growth factor that stimulates those around you. destroyed, however, and the abnormal cells blue fruits and vegetables are good sources of growth of tissue. Check with your doctor if Avoid aggressive or passive behaviour. cannot be controlled any longer, cancer forms. antioxidants. Mushrooms like Shitake and you have insulin resistance. Try to reduce Learn to express your feelings in a positive Reishi have been shown to have immune acti- weight by following a low fat, low glycaemic way. DON’T BOTTLE UP! Causes vating property, which can help to prevent can- diet (low GI diet), and exercise for at least half Avoid excessive stress in your life. Be sen- cer. an hour per day. Regular exercise helps to sible with work hours, nutrition and rest. It is not known exactly what causes the cell • Fruits and vegetables are also good source of lower blood sugar by lowering insulin resist- Take time to perform stress-reduction tech- damage that initiates the cancer process. fibre. ance. For more information see your natur- niques, like deep breathing exercise, walk by Several factors may contribute to the loss of • Eat onions and use garlic liberally, as it opath. the water, listen to music, read a good book, control of cell division. Agents which can con- enhances the immune system. • Chemicals from pesticides and plastics have relaxation massages and pray! tribute to uncontrolled cell division are called • Almonds also contain a substance called chemicals that can have effects like oestrogen Accept gracefully the things in your life carcinogens (cancer promoters). laetrile, which has anticancer property. (known as xenoestrogens). If possible, avoid over which you don’t have any control. Save Chemical and environmental factors (includ- • Tomatoes and tomato-based products (esp. any fruit or vegetable that has been sprayed or your energy for the things you can control. ing lifestyle choices such as diet and smoking) cooked tomatoes with some olive oil) contain treated with the pesticides and try to buy Accept yourself and remember that any are associated with an estimated 60 – 90% of lycopene, which is one of the powerful antiox- organic foods. If not, wash them properly or mistakes you make are learning processes. all human cancers. Viruses may also initiate idant and protects cells from oxidation which peel them before eating. Similarly, minimize Be patient and tolerant of others. Accept the cancer process. can lead to cancer. the use of plastics by avoiding foods that are them as they are. Learn to forgive. Both lifestyle and environmental factors play • Fruits like lemons, oranges and their peels, as packaged using plastics. Chemicals also pro- a major role in the risk for developing cancer. well as pineapples have anti-cancer property. mote the formation of free radicals in the body It is also important to listen to your body Lifestyle factors include diet, smoking, obesi- • Folic acid, one of the vitamin, which is found as well as weaken the immune system, which signs and have regular check-ups with your ty, alcohol consumption and exposure to the in dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits and may lead to cancer. doctor. It is important to be diligent in getting sun. Environmental factors include air and juices, legumes and cereals, is helpful in pre- your regular screening tests and take note of water pollution. The hydrocarbons in cigarette vention of many cancers. Important nutrients in prevention of can- any early warning signs or symptoms that your smoke are carcinogenic. Certain genetic pre- • Green tea is also high in antioxidants. cer: body is not functioning as it should be. disposition may exist for certain cancers, but it • Drink fresh fruit or vegetable juices including • Vitamin A – enhances immune competence; is unclear how much is due to genetic suscep- beetroot, apple, carrots, cranberry, and orange. as well as important for good health of skin, * Christina Scalone is a very experienced and successful tibility and how much is due to similar • Foods fermented with lactobacillus aci- mucous membrane, and eyes. naturopath with over 20 years experience. She holds a Degree in Health Science, a Diploma in Botanical Medi- lifestyles in related individuals. dophilus should be eaten regularly, e.g. yogurt. - Dietary sources: organ meats, cod cine, Diploma in Homoeopathy and a Diploma in Nutri- • Fish and fish oils as well as olive oil prevent liver oil, poultry, cornmeal, cream, tion. She has maintained a full time practice, has held a Preventative measures some form of cancer. cheese, egg yolk position as a senior practioner/ naturopathic consultant, a • Reduce intake of fat and deep fried foods. • Vitamin C – is a potent antioxidant. It also clinic manager and trainer for Blackmores and is a clinic • The best way to reduce the risk of cancer is student supervisor as well as a lecturer at the Australian Cancers of breast, colon and prostate are asso- stimulates the immune system, which can College of Natural Therapies. She also maintains her own to reduce or eliminate exposure to potential ciated with high fat diet. modify the rate of tumour growth. private practice with successful results. DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/43 Health HEALTH Gallstones NEWS Gallstones can occur as a solitary large stone extra cholesterol into the bile causing gall- showing their location. in some people. Others may have hundreds of stones. Additional investigations may be required for WITH DR. THEO PENKLIS * small stones. Some people may have a combi- When people fast, movement of bile from the people with serious complications or those nation of small and large stones. gall bladder is reduced and so the bile becomes who are thought to have stones in the bile duct. over concentrated with cholesterol, which can An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancre- Gallstones are small, hard stones that devel- Why do gallstones form? lead to gallstones. In a similar fashion, drugs atography (ERCP) may be required to demon- op in the gall bladder. It is not exactly clear why gallstones form. It that lower cholesterol levels in the blood actu- strate and remove bile duct stones. In this test, The gall bladder is a small bag-like organ is thought that the liver produces too much ally increase the amount of cholesterol secret- an endoscope is passed through the oesopha- which sits under the liver and stores bile. cholesterol and this results in the formation of ed in the bile, and therefore increase the risk of gus and stomach into the bowel and XRays are Bile is a liquid that is produced in the liver cholesterol in the bile which grows into stones. gallstones. taken after dye is injected into the bile duct. and stored in the gall bladder. Other thoughts on this matter are that the gall- Blood tests are usually required to look for Bile aids in the digestion of fat, and when stones form because there is too much biliru- What are the symptoms of gallstones? signs of infection, obstruction, pancreatitis or required, the gall bladder contracts and pushes bin or not enough bile salts in the bile, or that People who develop gall stone pain often jaundice. the bile into a tube called the bile duct which the gall bladder does not contract as it should describe the pain as severe and it builds up in carries the bile to the small intestine where it and therefore does not empty normally and so the abdomen and increases in intensity. It may How do we treat gallstones? aids digestion. the retained bile leads to gall stones . last from thirty minutes to several hours. The Gallstones are generally treated by surgery. Bile is made up of water, cholesterol, fats, bile pain is usually in the right upper abdomen, While there are drugs available to dissolve salts, proteins and bilirubin. Who gets gallstones? under the ribs, or through to the back. It may gallstones, drug treatment is only undertaken A gallstone forms when a small bit of sediment Almost anyone including children can grow radiate to the right shoulder. The pain is often in rare circumstances because the drugs are not in the bile acts as a collecting spot for more gallstones. They are more common with associated with nausea and vomiting. very effective. Even if the stones dissolve, they sediment and causes it to grow into a stone. advancing age. The pain of gallstones, often described as an often return after stopping treatment. About fifteen percent of adults in western ‘attack’ of gallstones, usually follows a fatty Similarly, crushing or shattering stones using There are two types of gallstones: society have gallstones. Gallstones occur more meal, and is often at night. Associated symp- a machine called a lithotripter, which generates 1. cholesterol stones ; which are usually yel- commonly in women. Women between twen- toms can include abdominal bloating, belch- shock waves outside the body, is not effective low-green in colour and are made primarily of ty and sixty years of age are twice as likely to ing, and indigestion. More serious associated for gallstones but does work very well for kid- hardened cholesterol. These account for eighty develop stones as men. Gallstones are more symptoms include fever, chills, jaundice (a ney stones. percent of gallstones. common in obese people and people with dia- yellow discolouration of the skin or whites of Surgery to remove the gallbladder is the most 2. pigment stones; which are made primari- betes. Rapid weight loss, as the body the eyes) and clay colours to the stools. common way to treat symptomatic gallstones. ly of bilirubin. metabolises fat, causes the liver to secrete Many people with gallstones have no symp- Stones which are located in the gallbladder toms, and often are unaware that they have are treated by removal of the gallbladder gallstones and only find out as a result of an (cholecystectomy). Stones which are located investigation for another problem. These peo- in the bile duct can be treated either endoscop- NEWS FROM ST ANDREW’S ple are said to be asymptomatic. The gall- ically or by surgery. stones do not interfere with gall bladder, liver Today, most gallbladders can be removed by or pancreatic function. ‘key-hole’ surgery.This is the most common BROTHERHOOD operation and is called a ‘laparoscopic chole- It is with great excitement that the St. organise a table of your family and friends, Why can gallstones cause a problem? cystectomy’. This is a type of ‘keyhole opera- Andrew’s Brotherhood, a committee please contact Marianne Penklis 0425 222 As bile is secreted from the gall bladder, if tion’ in which the gallbladder and stones are which has long been established to prima- 202 or Sandra Gav 0412 669 955.Tickets are stones are present, they can block the bile duct, removed using a laparoscope and using this rily raise funds to aid the Greek Orthodox limited and are selling quickly. Entry is via a and obstruct bile from coming out of the gall technique, patients are usually able to leave Archdiocese of Australia in its educational donation of $90 and must be paid for in bladder causing jaundice or bile duct infec- hospital after one to two days. and other pastoral endeavours is organiz- advance. tions. This inflammation of the gall bladder is Occasionally, ‘key-hole’ surgery is not pos- ing a dinner to celebrate the 20th This is a milestone event for Greek called acute cholecystitis. Occasionally stones sible or risky and the standard operation is per- Anniversary of St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Australians and to further celebrate at the lower end of the bile duct can cause formed using a longer incision below the right Orthodox Theological College. this occasion the biannual raffle organised by inflammation of the pancreas, a condition ribs. This will require a longer stay in hospital the St Andrew’s Brotherhood this year has called pancreatitis. from six to eight days. St Andrew’s Theological College was estab- super prizes; with a total of four trips to Surgery may not be able to be performed lished in February, 1986 by the Greek Greece being on offer. How are gallstones diagnosed? during an acute attack of gallstones. Often Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia. .The Raffle tickets can be purchased from parish The most sensitive and specific test for diag- patients require strong painkillers and antibi- Theological College is a self-funded tertiary priests or church committee members from nosing gallstones is an ultrasound. otics and hospital admission to treat an acute institution which relies principally on the all parishes across Australia. Full details of Ultrasound uses sound waves to create ima- attack. It is very important if one has a history donations of the members of the church. the prizes are outlined below. ges of organs. Sound waves are sent toward of gallstones to follow a low fat diet and avoid As you may be aware, the Theological The St Andrew’s Brotherhood committee the gall bladder through a handheld device that overeating or oily foods that are known to College is the admiration and object of pride sincerely welcomes you to join us in this a technician glides over the abdomen. bring on an ‘attack’ of gallstones. of many of the faithful, as they know that this milestone event. The sound waves bounce off the gall bladder, is the institution which is educating its future St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox liver and other organs, and their echoes make * The information given in this article is of a gener- leaders, religious educators, priests and Theological College electrical impulses that create a picture of the al nature and readers should seek advice from their future bishops. organ on a video monitor. If stones are present, own medical practitioner before embarking on any Many of our churches across Australia have RAFFLE PRIZES the sound waves will bounce off them, too, treatment. been fortunate enough to already have gradu- ates from this college serving the faithful. 1. 2 return tickets to Greece* Many of these graduates are young, 2. 1 return ticket to Greece* Australian born, educated men who are able (1st and 2nd prize kindly donated by St. to relate well and communicate effectively Andrew’s Brotherhood) with the youth of our community. 3. 1 return ticket to Greece*(this ticket kind- The Year 2006 is the 20th Anniversary of ly donated by Gulf Air with the assistance of the Theological College. To celebrate the sig- Olympic Airways) nificant achievements of St Andrew’s and to 4. Peter’s of Kensington voucher to the continue the good work that the Brotherhood value of $1 000(kindly donated by Peter has done to date, there is to be an Anniversary and Christa Satouris) Dinner to be held in Sydney at ‘Nick’s’, King 5. David Jones voucher to the value of St Wharf on the evening of Friday 17th $500(kindly donated by Victoria Yeeros, February, 2006. Marrickville) The dinner will be held in the presence of our Primate and Dean of the Theological * conditions apply College, His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos. Donation: Book of 5 tickets for $10 You cannot afford to miss this celebration! To be drawn at the 20th Anniversary If you are interested in joining us in celebrat- Celebration Dinner on Friday, 17th February, ing this auspicious occasion and would like to 2006 DECEMBER 2005 16/44 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

SUCCESSFUL END Is the EYE only TO MODERN GREEK the window to our soul? By Kaliope Kariatlis - B.Optom (Hons) The importance of checking LANGUAGE CLASSES (UNSW) the retina regularly HELD AT NEWINGTON COLLEGE - WYVERN HOUSE, STANMORE While the eye has long been considered as As mentioned above the retina is the inner UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE the window of our soul, few people realise most layer of the eye ball. The retinal tissue that the eye can act as the ‘window’ to one’s has the highest consumption of oxygen by OF AUSTRALIA general health! weight of any tissue in the human body. It is The main function of our eyes is quite sim- lined with small arteries, veins and capillaries. ply to provide us with vision. It does this in a Due to their size they are amongst the first to highly intricate way so that we can appreciate be affected when blood pressure, glucose or the many colours, contrasts and details that cholesterol become elevated. surround us daily. It therefore makes sense It is not unusual to see a bleed (leakage of that when our vision becomes blurry we seek blood from a vessel on the retina) at the back the advise of an Optometrist to explain what of the eye in a person who has had long term is occurring and how it can be corrected. undiagnosed or poorly controlled vascular What many people do not realise is that a problems. thorough examination of the eyes not only In many cases a bleed at the back of the eye involves the checking of one’s prescription – can go unnoticed by patients if the bleeding is it also involves the Optometrist checking the not in the direct line of sight. Detecting such inner health of the eye. This is critical in occurrences is vital in uncovering vascular detecting problems which if left undetected (a problems previously undiagnosed. It also number of eye conditions do not have any enables the Optometrist to confirm that any symptoms) can threaten vision and/or general current medications being used to control vas- health. cular problems are working effectively. Before looking at some specific examples let us familiarise ourselves with the basic Three common causes structure of the eye. of retinal bleeds 1. High or poorly controlled blood pres- sure. High blood pressure can cause the small blood vessels that line the back of the eye to burst thus leaking blood onto the retina. If the blood leaks into the macular area (see dia- An end of year performance of Greek poet- Wyvern on Wednesday and Thursday nights gram) central vision can be impaired. ry and traditional songs by a group of students throughout Terms 3 and 4, 2005. 2. Long term or undiagnosed diabetics in Years K to 4 brought down the curtain on A special thank you must also be extended to Higher levels of glucose in the blood are the first year of Modern Greek language class- the teachers, Mrs Maria Zlatanou and Mr thought to damage the perycites (cells that es held at Newington College - Wyvern Philip Kariatlis for their dedication and the line the wall of the blood vessel which prevent House, under the auspices of the Greek high quality of their teaching. The teaching leakage) and result in blood leaking onto the retina. If blood leaks into the region of the Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (including standards, expected of Newington boys during macula central vision can be impaired. the Parish of St Stylianos, Sutherland). the day, were upheld by both Maria and Philip 3. Undiagnosed or poorly controlled cho- With the blessing of His Eminence during Greek language classes after school. It Cornea: Transparent layer of tissue which is lesterol Archbishop Stylianos and the support of is with this spirit of open communication and in front of the iris. High levels of cholesterol can cause block- Father Constantine Varipatis from the Parish striving for positive educational outcomes that Pupil: Opening in the middle of the iris which ages in the smaller vessels that line the retina of St Stylianos, together with the assistance of we shall continue these classes next year. The can expand and contract to regulate the resulting in reduced/ no blood flow to certain Mr George Timothy, Treasurer of the Head of Wyvern has consented to students admission of light. parts of the retina. This results in retinal tissue Sutherland Parish, the classes began in July of (including girls) from like schools enrolling in Iris: Flat circular pigmented diaphram sur- death and can cause blindness in one's field of this year as a parent driven initiative to fill a these classes at the discretion of the class coor- rounding pupil of the eye. vision. perceived need in our boy’s broader education. dinators. Lens: Transparent structure behind the pupil All people with vascular problems or a fam- With the cooperation of the Greek Orthodox For parents who would like more informa- which helps the eye focus light. ily history of vascular problems should have Archdiocese, the Head of Wyvern, Mr Peter tion, contact Mr George Griziotis (M) 0413- Macula: The region on the retina which pro- their eyes tested at least every 2 years to en- Franks and the consent of the main school, 184603. vides our central detailed vision. sure the retina is maintaining good health. permission was given to hold classes at George Griziotis Optic Nerve: The nerve acts as the connec- Diabetics are recommended to have the retina tion which transmits information from the eye examined at least once a year unless other- to the brain. wise recommended.

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia St George Greek Orthodox Church, Rose Bay 90 Newcastle St., Rose Bay, NSW 2029 Tel: (02) 9371 9929 CHRISTMAS GREETINGS TO ALL! Ç ÁÊÏËÏÕÈÉÁ ÔÙÍ ×ÑÉÓÔÏÕÃÅÍÍÙÍ ÁÑ×ÉÆÅÉ ÓÔÉÓ 8 p.ì.

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ON CHRISTMAS DAY 114552 BEGINS AT 8 a.m. DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 17/45

Overview of Hellenic Aid’s accomplishments Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis provided an with specialised NGOs - programs, which target practically all a role in helping these countries’ economic development. overview of the accomplishments of the ministry’s devel- the Millennium Goals,” he added. Katerina Koutrakou, head of the agency’s emergency huma- opment aid agency over the past year and outlined Yiorgos Pandremenos, a foreign ministry expert and close nitarian assistance department, referred to Greece’s humanitar- Hellenic Aid’s future goals during a special event organ- collaborator of Stylianidis on development issues, stressed that ian aid activities both in cases of natural disasters and armed ised by the Constantine Karamanlis Foundation in Athens one of the agency’s future goals is to provide humanitarian and conflicts, as well as to continuous aid activities to certain recently. development aid more effectively. developing countries. To this end, Hellenic Aid is working with more experienced Greece’s development cooperation and aid on an interna- “During the past year, our country as a member of the [UN] countries and international organisations. tional level “must become a diplomatic tool even in the case Security Council and as a representative of a timeless civilisa- It is within this context, that the agency recently signed an of normalising relations with neighbouring countries,” ruling tion that respects human values, was distinguished for solidar- agreement with the United States Agency for International New Democracy MP and head of the party’s Foreign Affairs ity initiatives it took towards developing countries and was Development (USAID). division said. recognised by the international community as an international Pandremenos also said that Hellenic Aid wishes to become He added that cooperation in development and humanitari- humane force,” Stylianidis said. active in sectors other than health and education, such as eco- an aid can contribute to stability and peace in the entire region. “We were active in 46 countries, implementing - together nomic sectors of developing countries, so that Greece can play

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The conference, which seeks to take the next THE step in global greenhouse gas abatement after ANDREW KENNEDY the Kyoto Protocol expires, reached ministeri- al level recently. ANDREW KENNEDY Environment Minister Ian Campbell is WALTERS & SON attending and delivered a speech during which he said Australia would host the first meeting next month of a six-nation Asia-Pacific part- WALTERS & SON nership on climate change. GROUP Management and staff But ACF executive director Don Henry said of Walters & Son Australia’s refusal to sign Kyoto had left it on WOOD COFFILL the outer. OF FUNERAL Funerals “Even though our Environment Minister Ian wish the Greek Campbell told the conference today that an community of Australia effective global response was in the crucial GROUP OF FUNERAL interests of Australia, we have no seat at the DIRECTING Merry global negotiating table under the Kyoto Protocol,” Mr Henry said in a statement. DIRECTING COMPANIChristmasES He said Australia therefore had no influence COMPANIES in the emerging international carbon trading market. “That market contains huge opportunities for Australia,” he said. ****************************************** “While we welcome Minister Campbell’s acknowledgement that Australia is particularly vulnerable to climate change, our continued linkage to the anti-Kyoto Bush administration WE ARE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT carries with it a high risk that Australia’s inter- ests beyond 2012 will not get a look in at this DULWICH HILL LAKEMBA conference.” 433-435 New Canterbury Rd. 890 Canterbury Rd. AFP reported from Montreal that Australia Telephone: 9560 9999 Telephone: 9759 4044 had broken ranks with the United States to endorse a Canadian proposal for countries to hold talks over the next two years to find ways RANDWICK RYDE of curbing greenhouse gas emissions. 151 Alison Road 714 Victoria Rd. Senator Campbell said Australia could only Telephone: 9399 9988 Telephone: 9809 0396 make meaningful global greenhouse gas reductions if effective action was taken by all KINGSFORD KATOOMBA the major emitting countries. 434-436 Anzac Parade 1 Cascade Street Mr Henry said a positive move at the confer- Telephone: 9663 0408 Telephone: 4782 2411 ence was it had agreed to examine a proposal from Papua New Guinea which could help save the world’s tropical rainforests as part of the global push to deal with climate change. ALL OF OUR LOCATIONS ARE FULLY SELF CONTAINED WITH “Developing countries are taking serious steps CHAPELS, VIEWING FACILITIES & MORTUARIES AND ARE to tackle climate change,” he said. “PNG’s rainforests plan and China’s commit- ATTENDED 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK ment to a 15 per cent renewable energy target are evidence of this.” OFFICES AND CHAPELS AT - RYDE, RANDWICK, KATOOMBA 4 Members by Invitation - Selected Independent Funeral Homes

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Australia to lead new effort to return Elgin Marbles Sea, sun and study

Australia will lead an international effort to step up pressure on Britain to return the celebrated Elgin Marbles, currently on dis- play in the British Museum in London, to their rightful home in Greece.

Former ABC managing director David Hill says representatives of 15 countries concerned about the ancient artefacts have banded together to form a single international committee to persuade the British government to relinquish the marbles. “First we call unanimously for the Parthenon sculptures to be reunited in Athens in the new Acropolis museum,” Hill said in Athens today. Greece wants a piece of the international higher education pie. It’s set to launch a new English-language public university “Second, we call for the initiation of government to government to attract foreign students to bolster income from education negotiations between the British and Greek governments with the aim of achieving the return of the marbles. By Kathy Tzilivakis Fast facts “Thirdly, we have unanimously agreed to establish the International Organisation for the Reunification of the Parthenon Marbles and I’m Greece is in the market for international students, partic- * The International Hellenic University will cater to for- very honoured to have been asked to be its first president.” ularly those from neighbouring countries. eign students from the Balkans, southeast Europe and the Among the 15 countries whose delegates met today and agreed to This time next year, the northern port city of Thessaloniki Middle East, as well as Greeks from other European coun- form the organisation were Australia, New Zealand, Britain, Cyprus, will become home to the new International Hellenic tries and North America. As regards the Greek diaspora, the Germany, Greece, Italy, Russia, Sweden and the United States. University - the country’s first-ever public English-speak- university will aim at acquainting them with modern The meeting was the brainchild of Greek junior culture minister ing institution of higher education. Greece Petros Tatoulis, who recalled that Greece had the “backing of According to the centre-right New Democracy govern- * The university will be established in Thessaloniki, UNESCO and the European Union” for its appeal launched in 1982 ment, the purpose of this multimillion-euro endeavour is to northern Greece, because of the city’s proximity to the by the actress and Socialist culture minister Melina Mercouri, who tap into the growing global education market and to attract Balkans and other neighbouring countries from where most died in 1994. more foreign students to the country. It’s an ambitious plan of the foreign students targeted would come The representatives also met Greek Prime Minister Costas that is outlined in landmark legislation approved by parlia- * The academic structure of the new university will Karamanlis and President Carolos Papoulias and visited the ment “in principle” on August 30. resemble that of other Greek public universities. The only Acropolis and the site of the new Acropolis museum, due to be com- difference will be the language of instruction (English) and pleted at the end of next year. English, please that the foreign students will pay tuition. Anthony Snodgrass, head of the British committee, said: “There has been certainly a change of cards in the British culture establishment. The law has sweeping implications for higher education. Note: Students who are citizens of a European Union I will describe it by saying that our tactics in the British committee For instance, all courses at the Hellenic International member state where public universities do not charge are no longer one of contracting (...) but of surrounding our allies, or University will be offered in English - the accepted global tuition will not pay tuition to attend the International former allies in some cases, to change their attitude, for example the lingua franca. Though it will be new to Greece, English- Hellenic University. All students, regardless of nationality, directors of other big museums in London (...) who we expect to language public universities are already the norm in most however, will pay tuition to pursue graduate and postgrad- back” the return of the marbles. neighbouring Balkan countries, while even universities in uate studies at the new university. And in a gesture designed to step up the pressure on London, France, Germany, Italy and Spain are introducing courses Swedish representative Birgit Wiger-Angner announced that she in English. Student mobility in Europe would donate a family heirloom, a fragment of a frieze which once According to Education Minister Marietta Yiannakou, if decorated the wall of the Erechteion, a temple in the Acropolis com- Greece wants to attract more university students from According to the European Commission’s statistical pound, to the new museum. abroad it must offer programmes compatible with interna- agency Eurostat, as many as 50,000 Greeks pursue univer- According to the Greek authorities, the marbles were “stolen” in tional educational standards. sity education in another European Union country. This is 1806 by Lord Elgin, the erstwhile British ambassador to the Ottoman The school will open its doors in September 2006. Only nearly five times as many Britons, French, Italians, Irish, Empire which occupied Greece at the time. some 80 students will be admitted the first year to pursue Swedes and Finns study in other EU countries. But London has always denied Greek claims to ownership and main- undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate studies. They In fact, Greece, Germany (44,000) and Turkey (35,000) tains that the marbles were bought legitimately from the Ottoman will be admitted in one of three faculties: business, infor- are the three biggest exporters of students. authorities. mation technology and humanities. In 2002, the United Kingdom and Germany attracted the Meanwhile, the Greek junior culture minister dismissed archaeolo- What is more, most of the undergraduate students and all highest number of foreign students to their universities and gists’ claims that the foundations of the Acropolis monument in of the graduate and postgraduate students will have to pay other tertiary educational institutions, according to Athens were threatened by rainwater that has seeped into the soil of tuition. The exact enrolment procedure will be outlined in a Eurostat. The UK, with around 227,000 and Germany with the ancient citadel. presidential decree. According to the law, however, enrol- about 219,000 accounted for 25.4 percent and 24.5 percent, Of most concern is the fifth-century BC Parthenon temple, which ment will be open only to students who have studied abroad respectively, of all reported foreign students for the EU. had its roof destroyed during a 17th century siege of the Acropolis by and who have resided outside Greece for at least six years In both of these countries, foreign students represented Venetian forces. prior to their application. According to Yiannakou, it is still around 10 percent of all students at the tertiary level, slight- There is “no danger”, Tatoulis said. “The water-tightness of the under discussion whether the university will eventually ly up compared to its 1999 level for Germany, but down for Parthenon’s foundations is guaranteed by the temporary covering accept prospective students living in Greece. the UK. which has protected the roof of the temple for 23 years” during “The creation of the International Hellenic University by Greece has proportionately the fewest European students. restoration work, he said. the Greek government is our country’s response to the chal- the lion’s share hail from Asia (86 percent). In France, Test drilling has discovered cavities under and around the lenges of the international political and economic realms, meanwhile, 26 percent of foreign students come from other Parthenon, Manolis Korres, an architect with extensive experience of which highlight the need for knowledge and research, inno- European countries, 14 percent from Asia and 53 percent the Acropolis restoration effort, had claimed. The problem is exacer- vation and competition as well as the spirit of creativity and from Africa. bated by the fact that an ancient drainage system built into the site no cooperation and mutuality between peoples,” Deputy In terms of total numbers, Greece, according to the longer functions. Education Minister Spiridonas Taliandouros told the Eurostat report, attracts no more than 10,000 European stu- The Acropolis, a World Heritage site, has been undergoing restora- Athens News in a statement. “The International Hellenic dents each year. This is one of the lowest. The United tion for more than 20 years. The majority of the work is expected to University will aspire to become a place of reference in Kingdom on the other hand attracts more than 100,000 stu- be completed by late 2006. southeastern Europe, attracting students from this wider dents, Germany around 120,000. AFP region and beyond, but also Greeks abroad (diaspora).” ATHENS NEWS DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 19/47

feel guilty about or be ashamed of, nor does it reflect a fault or weakness in personality. Mental Health Psychologists can help people work through depression re- lated problems by offering skills to change thinking By Mina Candalepas* Aspects of life impacted by depression patterns/behaviours contributing to depression and helping Psychologist MAPS People who experience clinical depression often find adverse people to develop long term coping skills. changes to the following areas in their life: Reg NSW PS0057198 Loss of interest in pleasurable activities and/or social If people with depression are having suicidal thoughts, it is withdrawal, in that they are no longer able to enjoy social imperative that treatment is sought immediately by contact- and /or recreational activities. Many depressed people ing, the Area Mental Health Crisis Team, their GP then 000. It Depression tend to avoid such activities; is important not to ignore depression related symptoms and to Appetite changes; contact your local GP for possible referral to a psychiatrist, Sleeping problems either excessive sleep or lack of Within the Greek Orthodox faith and other Christian tradi- local Psychologist or the Australian Psychological Society sleep; tions, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus. For many peo- (APS) Referral Service on 1800 333 497 for more informa- Worrying or negative thinking regarding self, future ple, Christmas is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion as well tion. or current circumstances; as spending time with family and friends. For others, it is a Irritability and/or agitation. People can be irritable time for giving a time for receiving or a time for attending If you, or your loved one is experiencing problems with with regards to being depressed or life in general. At times copious amounts of parties, eating and drinking. drugs or alcohol this time of year please call ProviCare on people may become more easily upset with those around 1800 010 575. them; and For some people however, this season reinforces their lone- liness, unmet expectations and empty feelings. For these peo- Fatigue and/or tiredness. References: ple the so called “jolly season” is a season that is far removed APS Website: Understanding and Managing Depression and from a jolly experience, in that depression related symptoms What are the treatments? APS Tip Sheet. of varying intensities are experienced. It is during this emo- DSM IV, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Three forms of treatment for depression include: tional period that some people may turn to alcohol in order to Disorders: Mood Disorders. Fourth Edition, American pharmachological treatments, such as antidepressant numb these negative emotions. Psychiatric Association, Washington DC. P317 -391. medication; Depression is a term that is used to describe many different psychological treatments, which provide people experiences. Generally people associate the term depression to with strategies and insights to assist with managing feeling down or sad. It is important to distinguish these sad depression related symptoms and preventing further * Mina Candalepas is a Registered Psychologist. She is the sole episodes of depression; and director of a Clinical Private Practice in the Campsie Professional feelings from clinical depression, which is generally intense, long-lasting, significantly affects daily life and a state that a combination of pharmachological treatments and Medical Practice, Sydney NSW. Her particular speciality is in trau- someone just can’t snap out of quickly. It also differs from a psychological treatments, particularly useful with the ma and chronic pain management and she also provides psychologi- most severe forms of depression. The medication assists cal therapy for depression, anxiety, work-place issues and/or injuries, sadness that is naturally experienced after loss, for example relationship issues, self esteem and grief. during grief, where sadness is a healthy and functional in changing the individual’s mood and/or state and increases their response to psychological treatment. Therapy is conducted in either English or Greek. All services are by response. Clinical depression on the other hand is not healthy appointment ONLY and strictly confidential. Her contact details are or functional, it can stop people from moving forward with It is important to understand that depression is treatable and Tel (02) 9591 7714, Mob 0410 493 806. their lives and generally experiencing the joys life has to offer. does not have to be a permanent state. It is not something to

Merry Christmas

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Champagne (or ‘sparkling white wine’ as it tinsel, city streets are lined with festive lights, challenge but the soaring summer tempera- must be labelled if it is produced anywhere children are eagerly awaiting the promised tures that accompany Christmas in Australia Puff-pastry fruit mince triangles: else but the Champagne region of France)? visit from Santa. Then there’s the other side of make it doubly difficult for us living ‘down If commercial mince pies seem a disappoint- Watching as people jump when the cork flies Christmas... the bank accounts are beginning under’. It’s not surprising then that the typical ment, or home-made ones too much fuss, or from the bottle with a resounding pop? Yet, to groan with the strain of Christmas shopping, Aussie Christmas is becoming quite a unique short-crust pastry just too rich for a hot day many Champagnes or Champagne style wines normally calm people morph into anxious celebration. A far cry from British traditions, you can make an extremely easy alternative are, when it comes to drinking them, some- shoppers willing to do almost anything to today our menus are often laden with fresh version. Depending on how much work you thing of a disappointment. Overly dry and secure that all important parking spot in the seafood, barbecued meats, salads and, of want to put into it you can either make your often rather tasteless, they require something overcrowded shopping centre, tempers fray as course, beer. Not only does it minimise the own puff pastry or buy a commercially pre- to spice them up. With the addition of just one people cue for hours at the post office to buy cooking required, but it allows everyone to pared frozen pastry. Personally, I find a frozen ingredient you can create a visually stunning Christmas stamps, and when you turn on the contribute by ‘bringing a plate’. version such as Pampas butter puff quite satis- and deliciously Australian Christmas drink. radio you’re guaranteed to hear either “I’m We can’t entirely escape Australia’s British factory. Any commercial pastry will do pro- The secret? Preserved wild hibiscus flowers. dreaming of a white Christmas” for the heritage however. It’s fair to say that vided it is made with butter and not margarine The flowers are steeped in sugar syrup (much umpteenth time or (even worse) the same old Christmas just isn’t Christmas without the tra- or vegetable fats. To make the triangles, take a the way spoon fruits are made) and add a deli- debates about the political correctness of ditional pudding, Christmas cake, mince tarts small jar of fruit mince (e.g. Robertson’s), 1 cious sweetness, pale pink colour and rhubarb Christmas. Then, of course, there’s the issue of and brandy butter. However, if all this sweet, small granny smith apple (grated), and a table- and berry-like flavours to any dry, mild Christmas parties, family get-togethers and the rich fare seems just too much on a hot sum- spoon of brandy. Mix the ingredients together, sparkling white wine. To serve, place a flower Christmas feast...Who’s hosting the family mer’s day, it is possible (with a little imagina- cover and leave it to sit for about 15mins. For and one or two teaspoons of the hibiscus syrup ‘do’ this year? Is someone bringing the plum tion) to modify the menu to satisfy both tradi- this amount of fruit mince you will need in the bottom of a Champagne flute. Carefully pud’? Do we really need that extra bottle of tional and practical considerations. For approx. 2 packets (750g each) of puff pastry pour the Champagne on top and ensure that ginger beer? Can we take fancy chocolates in starters, here are some ideas: rolled out to about 2mm thickness. To assem- the flower has opened and is sitting up-right in the car on a 40 degree day and have them look- ble the triangles take a four inch square sheet the bottom of the glass before serving. Simply ing spectacular at the end of our long journey Ice-cream Christmas pudding: of puff pastry, place a heaped teaspoon of the stunning. An added bonus is that the flowers to whichever remote destination has been des- You can, if you wish, buy a commercially fruit mince mixture in the middle of the square are edible, so there’s a further treat after the ignated as the Christmas day family party prepared ice-cream pudding. It is, however, then fold the pastry over to form a triangle, glass has been emptied of wine. A bottle con- location? (Or will they end up as tired and fun to make one yourself, and the end result is sealing the pastry together around the edges. taining 12 preserved wild hibiscus flowers in wilted as the passengers?) far tastier. For an easy, quick to make version Bake the triangles on a buttered tray in a 220 syrup costs around $10 and can be bought Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas, I look mix up approx.1 ½ or 2 cups of various types degrees C oven until they are golden coloured from some boutique stores/delicatessens or by forward to Church on Christmas morning, of dried fruit (sultanas, mixed peel, red and (about 15-20 mins). Cool on a wire rack then contacting the makers Kurrajong Native going to Christmas parties, seeing how much green glace cherries). To this, add 1 tablespoon dust with icing sugar before serving. These Foods (02 88833955 www.wildhibiscus.com) my cousins have grown since last year and so of brandy and mix well. Put to one side and really need to be eaten on the day that they’re to find your nearest supplier. on. It strikes me, however, that Christmas is all allow the fruit to absorb the brandy. When the baked, otherwise the puff pastry will become too often a chore, especially for those who fruit is thoroughly marinated, mix it into a 2lt soggy Wine Review By Imogen Coward Queensland has been making headlines lately as one of Australia’s most promising wine pro- ducing regions. That said, for many years the Kominos winery in Stanthorpe, QLD, has been producing a number of wines & is now one of the largest wineries in Queensland. This month the Vema is pleased to bring you a 100% Aussie-Greek wine review. To enquire about costs and to purchase the following wines, please contact the Kominos winery directly [tel: 07 4683 4311 email: [email protected] website: www.kominoswines.com ].

Kominos Wines Unwooded Kominos Wines Reserve Merlot, IMPORTANT NOTICE Chardonnay, 2002 2002 GREEK SCOUT ENROLMENTS

Enrolments are being accepted for the new Cub Scouts 7 1/2 to 10 yrs, for period beginning February 2006.

AIM: To benefit Greek Youth from Scouting & To Promote Greek Language, Religion and Culture Íá åßìáóôå õðåñÞöáíïé ãéá ôçí êáôáãùãÞ ìáò.

Parents are invited to apply now to avoid the disappointment of being placed on a waiting list.

Greek Orthodox Scouting Committee UNDER THE AEGIS OF THE ÅðéôñïðÞ Åëëçíïñèïäüîùí Ðñïóêüðùí GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE

Correspondence: 16 Crewe Street, Bardwell Park E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 9567 1835 Fax: 9592 0301

Somewhat unusual for a merlot, this wine has quite a peppery nose with a hint of berries and wood. Flavours of berries and spice are Pale straw coloured with a distinctive peachy accompanied by a fairly hefty dose of tannin aroma with just a hint of honeydew, this high- and acid in this dry red. It is, in many respects, ly drinkable wine has a buttery mouth-feel reminiscent of a Cabernet/Merlot blend, how- complimented by stone fruit and citrus ever the smoothness at the end of the drink flavours. Flavoursome and rich, a clean acid- gives away it’s true constitution. Drink now, ity lends this wine a refreshing finish. Serve or cellar for a few years. This wine goes well slightly chilled with summer lunches. with red meat dishes. DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 21/49

THE 20 YEAR TRESPASS RULE FOR GREEK PROPERTY It is of great significance that people who or her property rights over the land for this own property in Greece, and live in other period of time then any other third party that countries, they should assert and exercise their has been dominating the land, cultivating it or property rights by carrying out the following even trespassing it can lay a claim on the land duties on a regular basis: and would be successful in a Greek Court if Have in their possession the title documents the third party (or trespasser) can show that the in relation to the property. owner failed to carry out his or her duties as a Cultivating or taking care of the property property owner for a period of 20 years. It is by nominating a trusted person to carry important to note that time starts from the date out these duties on behalf of the owner, by way that the third party starts to cultivate and take of a rental agreement for a nominal rent. care of the land, without any objections by the By ensuring that the owners visit the prop- owner erty regularly so that they assert their rights And in some instances time can start ticking over the property. for a period of only 10 years if the third party Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis President Karolos Papoulias Fencing the property to prevent third par- can show that he has dominated the land and ties from trespassing onto the property. has done what the owner should have done but The owner should check regularly whe- omitted to do. ther there are any third parties trespassing on President, PM go solar the land. Christine Manolakos Take photos of the land to show the boun- Solicitor da-ries and the position of the property and CMLawyers behind green initiative have in their possession all the title deeds and Level 1, 207 - 209 Marrickville Road pay all the taxes relating to the land. Marrickville NSW 2204 Greece’s two most senior political figures, Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis and The importance of the above actions is rel- Ph: 02 9568 6266 President Karolos Papoulias, will install solar panels in their official residences as a means evant when one looks at the 20 year rule that Fax: 02 9568 6106 of promoting the environmentally friendly energy source. says if a property owner has not exercised his e-mail: [email protected] The proposal was initially put forward recently by the environmental group Greenpeace, which called on Karamanlis to switch the Maximos Mansion in central Athens to solar ener- gy to serve as a good example for the rest of the country. The Greek Parliament will also make the change. “The possibility of electrical energy pro- duction via this new method will contribute in future to a better quality of life and an improvement to the environment while also saving energy,” said Parliament Speaker Anna Psarouda-Benaki. Healthy Greeks dodge diseases Greeks live longer and healthier lives now per 100,000 people in 1980 from one of 37 than they did 23 years ago, according to illnesses listed as being preventable. By experts who took part in a study on causes 2003 this had dropped to 184 deaths per of death, which was made public recently 100,000. Similarly, 127 people per 100,000 by the National School for Public Health died from curable diseases in 1980, com- (ESDY). pared to 70 per 100,000 in 2003. Researchers examined death certificates Experts found the number of deaths from from 1980 and 2003 to compare the causes lung and throat cancer - two of the diseases of death recorded each year, and found that deemed to be preventable or curable - only fewer Greeks are dying of preventable or started falling in the last five years. This is curable diseases than they were a generation thought to have coincided with a more vig- ago. orous campaign in Greece warning about The study found that there were 232 deaths the dangers of smoking.

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Con & Sons wish the Greek community of Australia Merry Christmas 116963 and A Happy New Year 51 Forrest Avenue, Earlwood NSW 2206 116036 DECEMBER 2005 22/50 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Premier Morris Iemma attends special fund raising dinner in support of St Andrew’s Theological College

Premier of NSW Mr Morris Iemma was the special guest speaker at a fund raising dinner held in the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, in support of St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College. The function was organised by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia with the assistance of Bankstown MP, Mr Tony Stewart, and was held at The Greek Australian Sports Hall of Fame, Brighton-Le-Sands. Also in attendance was His Grace Bishop Seraphim of Apollonia and a number of His Eminence, Archbishop Stylianos Premier of NSW, Mr Morris Iemma Mrs Carmel Tebbutt, Minister for Education Government Ministers including Mrs Carmel Tebbutt- Minister for Education, Mr John Hatzistergos- Minister for Health, Mr Frank Sartor- Minister for Planning, and Mr Tony Kelly- Minister for Justice. St Andrew’s College which was officially opened in 1986, was established in order to provide tertiary level education and training of Christian Orthodox clergy, theologians, lay teachers, and ministers in order to meet the cat- echetical and pastoral needs of the Orthodox Church in Australia. During the evening over $25,000 was raised by generous donors to sup- port the ongoing needs of the College. Mr Frank Sartor, Minister for Planning Bankstown MP, Mr Tony Stewart Mr John Hatzistergos, Minister for Health Greek-Australian scientist gives rise to hopes for the prevention of strokes

Greek-Australian, Dr. Sofoklis role of potassium in the prevention of Hrisombolis, 27, was awarded by the strokes -as it can secure the circulation of Melbourne Univer-sity for his most impor- blood in the brain- and the role of a so far tant discovery concerning prevention of unknown protein, the Rho-kinase which can strokes, which could save thousands of prevent brain damage from high blood pres- lives. Hrisombolis said that he discovered sure. Hrisombolis is the first scientist in the the mechanism to prevent stroke. world who in his experiments managed to He added, however, that the appropriate maintain circulation of blood in the brain of pill- which is not in his field- must be pro- a living organism with high blood pressure. duced to complete the discovery. The distinguished scientist will return to This is the challenge, which if successful the U.S to continue his research as he was will have a positive impact on human granted a 4 year research scholarship, to health. carry it out half in the US and half in Specifically, Hrisombolis discovered the Australia. DECEMBER 2005 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 23/51

Athens’ 21st century agora On November 25, one of the largest retail and leisure centres in southeastern Europe opened in Maroussi. During its first weekend alone it pulled in some 150,000 wide-eyed visitors

Its developers talk of it as a modern-day lic on November 25, is the first true shopping moth was undertaken by Lamda Develop- The thousands of assembled guests, having agora, in which people of all ages and stages mall in Athens, the largest private property ment, the same company behind Thessaloni- braved torrential rain and tedious traffic jams can gather together to shop, talk, eat, drink and development in Greece and one of the biggest ki’s sprawling Mediterranean Cosmos shop- to get a first glimpse of Athens’very first large- be entertained. leisure centres in southeastern Europe. ping mall, which opened in October. Lamda scale retail centre, were able to appreciate The But it has more on offer than the Athenians Located on the edge of Maroussi, between CEO Lambros Anagnostopoulos told the Mall’s “ideal climate” as they wandered of old could ever have imagined. Okay, you the Olympic stadium complex and Attiki Athens News on October 8 that the opening of around the three storeys of shops and eateries won’t happen across philosophers expounding Odos, this 185,000 sqm ‘colossus’ aims to ful- both projects within a month of each other was without having to worry about getting wet, on their latest theories, but you can max out fil all our shopping and leisure desires by partly “by accident”, because of construction muddy or cold. your credit card at 200 shops that sell every- grouping together shops, eateries and cinemas delays, but partly by design, in order to catch Unfortunately, they were also able to see the thing from laptops to lampshades, overcoats to under one vast, billowing plastic roof. The idea the Christmas shopping spree. somewhat Heath Robinson job the construc- underwear, bubble bath to babygros. is that, rain or shine, day or evening, we can Although Lamda had originally projected an tion teams had done in the race to have the cen- You may not get the chance to have your for- guiltlessly spend without having to worry October opening for The Mall, the project was tre up and running for the Christmas rush. tune told in the stars by a soothsayer but you about finding a parking place - The Mall delayed by a couple of weeks to make sure that The hastily laid paving tiles were not flush can watch the latest Harry Potter film in a pri- boasts 2,000 spaces in three underground lev- the shops were all ready. with the floor - or each other - (and in some vate cinema with state-of-the-art sound and els - getting pickpocketed, pestered by beg- The ribbon-cutting opening party for The places were completely absent), many lighting screen; and although you may not be offered a gars, or being sidetracked by a bored husband Mall took place on November 24, with inaugu- fixtures and other design details were unfin- kylix of sweet wine by a chiton-clad maiden (send him to Hooters) or tantrumming tot ral speeches and a brief musical interlude from ished, and the central walkways were at a you can certainly indulge in beer and cocktails (leave it in the “baby parking”). pop prince Sakis Rouvas (he sang an arrange- slightly higher level than the shop floors. served by large-breasted waitresses at Hooters. The 400 million euro project to revamp the ment of “Fly me to the moon”, for no obvious The Mall, which opened its doors to the pub- Olympic media village into this 8-floor behe- reason). ATHENS NEWS

Seasons cmt Greetings

†††††cccmt†mm†tt†††architectsa rchitects

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† cmt† architects Tel: +612 9587 4330 Fax: +612 9587 4332 c†mm†tt†††a rchitects †††† Tel: +61 2 9587 4330 Fax: +61 2 9587 4332 E - mail:[email protected] Director:Director: Chris Tsioulos Chris Tsioulos E-mail: [email protected]

DECEMBER 2005 24/52 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Feature Dr Steven P. Mistilis honoured for contribution to medicine The St Andrew’s Cross has been awarded to members of campus. the community who have made some outstanding contri- In his response, when honoured with the award of the St bution. These awards, gold or silver, represent a broad Andrew’s Cross, Dr Mistilis paid tribute to his parents for the range of achievements and contributions, including med- important role they played in his education and professional icine, literature, and politics. The St Andrew’s Cross, career. named in honour of the patron Saint of the Ecumenical “Although my father was illiterate and my mother only fin- Patriarch of Constantinople, has been awarded at the dis- ished primary school in Kastellorizo (there was no secondary cretion of His Eminence, Archbishop Stylianos, since school), they both valued education above all. My mother 1985. Between 1985 – 2004, sixty people, including the encouraged me to stay in academic medicine as she felt it was Hon. Gough Whitlam, Mr Hugh Gilchrist, Lady Rene God’s will that I do research to expand the knowledge of George, and others from around Australia, have been medicine,” said Dr Mistilis. given recognition. “Soi [kinfolk] must have also been a factor in guiding me to do medicine. My mother was a Georgouras and there are 12 One of the recipients for 2005 is Dr Steven P. Mistilis, who medical graduates amongst her cousins in australia with has had a distinguished career in academic medicine, research Professor Catherine Georgouras the first of the graduates.” and clinical medicine. Through his work a number of impor- “ I have enormous respect and admiration for my father, tant medical units and specialties have become established in who came to Australia (Port Headland) alone at the age of Australia. One example is the Gastroenterology unit at the eleven as a child refugee after Kastellorizo was bombed in Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney. Appointed Director WWI by the Germans. He was sent to a surrogate parent, an of Gastroenterology, after spending 7 years in the UK and English lady running a boarding house in Port Headland. She USA, Dr Mistilis developed that unit, which became the did not send him to school and he left after one year and for- national leader in less than 10 years. tunately was taken in by an aboriginal tribe and he learnt the He also established Liver Disease as a specialty in Australia language, could sing their songs and even play the didgeri- and is regarded by his colleagues as the father of Hepatology doo. He then worked as a diver for a Japanese pearling com- in this country. Dr Mistilis was the first in Australia to realize pany, trapped exotic birds, broke in wild brumbies, worked as the life saving potential of liver transplant and his patient was a miner in Kalgoorlie and became middleweight boxing the first Australian recipient of a liver transplant, and the first champion of Western Australia at the age of 18.” to survive for 25 years. He later formed a liver transplant team “My mother was self-educated and for bedtime stories read at St Vincent’s and was process of setting up a national trans- me passages of the Iliad and Odyssey and this fired my imag- plant institute with Dr Victor Chang. ination to explore the awesome world of ancient Greece. I In 1970 Dr Mistilis formulated treatment for the life threat- often felt I could be so lucky to have such a lofty cultural her- ening form of chronic hepatitis. Millions of patients world- itage. I was particularly moved when I found that Hypocrites, wide have been successfully treated, regaining a normal life the father of medicine came from the island of Kos in the span. It remains the present day treatment of this disease. His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos awarded the St Dodecanese in the same island group as Kastellorizo.” Twenty years ago he began the practice of surveillance Andrew’s Cross to Dr Steven P. Mistilis Although still actively engaged in clinical practice, special- colonoscopy, which is proven to significantly reduce the inci- izing in liver disease, gastroenterology, interventional dence of colon cancer. Colon surveillance is now practiced wide. He was elected to five prestigious international scientif- endoscopy and treatment of cholesterol disorders, Dr Mistilis nationally and Australia is the leader in this field. This prac- ic societies and was regarded to be the world authority on continues to teach graduate and post graduate students from tice has only recently been established in the USA. After 20 chronic hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis and alcohol metabolism. the University of NSW at St Vincent’s Clinic. He has pub- years of academic medicine, he went into practice and set up He was invited to deliver lectures in 20 centres abroad includ- lished 82 scientific papers in international journals including the first free standing endoscopy unit in Macquarie Street and ing New York, San Francisco, Boston, London, Paris, Athens Nature and American Journal of Medicine and contributed, later at St Vincent’s Clinic, currently the largest endoscopy and Rome, and was Associate Professor of Medicine at the by invitation, seven chapters in post graduate text books in unit in this country. University of California, San Francisco Berkeley campus, at UK and USA.. His academic achievements have been recognized world- the time when there were twenty Nobel Prize winners on

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