TWO TYPES of FAITHLESSNESS Part: B PAGE 5/21

THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece SEPTEMBER 2016 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] OUR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW TWO TYPES OF FAITHLESSNESS Part: B PAGE 5/21

Melbourne sets the standard It’s well known that Melbourne prides itself on being a cultural capital and this is the result of determined planning by the City of Melbourne; t o not only a ttract visitors to the city, but t o make sure the residents and visitors have plenty of reasons to remain in the city and spend their mone y there. Sydney, take note. PAGES 14/30 - 15/31 50 mil. children ‘uprooted’

Telling their stories - global persecution & displacement of Christians Most of you are aware of the intense perse- worldwide cution being experienced by Christians in the world. Whether it be the genocides in Iraq and Syria or the fr equent turmoil in occupie d- Across the globe, nearly 50 million children have been • Children represent a dispr oportionate and gr owing Palestine, much ha s been said in the me dia uprooted – 28 mi llion of them driv en from their homes proportion of those who ha ve sought refuge outside about their suffering and many of us have seen by conflicts not of their making , and mi llions more mi- their countries of birth: they make up about a third of the the graphic photos online. However, you ever grating in the hope of finding a be tter, safer life. Often global population but about half of all r efugees. In 2015 thought about wha t happens a fterwards to traumatised by the c onflicts and violence the y are flee- around 45 per cen t of all chi ld refugees under UNHCR’s those who sur vive? Even when the y flee t o ing, they face further dangers along the w ay, including protection came from Syria and Afghanistan. places of safe haven, like America or Australia, the risk of dr owning on se a crossings, malnourishment • 28 mi llion children have been driv en from their are their troubles really over? and dehydration, trafficking, kidnapping, rape and even homes by violence and c onflict within and acr oss bor- murder. In countries they travel through and at their des- ders, including 10 mi llion child refugees; 1 mi llion asy- PAGE 13/29 tinations, they often face xenophobia and discrimination. lum-seekers whose refugee status has not yet been de- A new report released recently by UNICEF, “Uprooted: termined; and an estimated 17 million children displaced The growing crisis f or refugee and migr ant children”, within their own countries – children in dire need of hu- presents new da ta that paint a sobering pictur e of the manitarian assistance and access to critical services. lives and situations of millions of children and families af- • More and more children are crossing borders on their fected by violen t conflict and other crise s that make it own. In 2015, ov er 100,000 unaccompanied minors ap- seem safer to risk everything on a perilous journey than plied for asylum in 78 countries – triple the number in remain at home. 2014. Unaccompanied children are among those a t the “Indelible images of individual children – Aylan Kurdi’s highest risk of exploitation and abuse, including by smug- small body washed up on a be ach after drowning at sea glers and traffickers. or Omran Daqneesh’s stunned and bloody face as he sat • About 20 mi llion other in ternational child migrants in an ambulance a fter his home w as destroyed – ha ve have left their homes for a variety of reasons including shocked the world,” said UNICEF Ex ecutive Director An- extreme poverty or gang violence. Many are at particular thony Lake. “But e ach picture, each girl or bo y, repre- risk of abuse and de tention because they have no docu- Lesvos sents many millions of children in danger – and this de- mentation, have uncertain legal s tatus, and there is no This eastern Aegean island encapsulates per- mands that our c ompassion for the individual chi ldren systematic tracking and monitoring of their well-being – haps better than any other, Greece’s tradition, we see be matched with action for all children.” children falling through the cracks. culture and spirit. “Uprooted” shows that: PAGE 16/32 SEPTEMBER 2016 2/18 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Randwick City Council welcomes students from Kastellorizo

Randwick City Council held a morning in year 11 said: “This program happens Greece. Opportunities on the island are Kastellorizo, as it is very hard.” tea for three students from Kastellorizo every two years, where one year children minimal depending on your family’s sta- Despite these troubles, life in Kastel- this month to celebrate the 20th an- from Kastellorizo come to Australia, and tus, Alexandros said. lorizo in the summer is nice for the stu- niversary of the sister city relationship one year they come from Perth to Kastel- “It is hard, as the school is not very dents, with many of their friends coming between Kastellorizo and Randwick City lorizo.” good. The subjects are easier here in from Australia, Greece and all over to en- Council. “We went to Perth and Melbourne for Australia than in Greece.” joy their holidays. Businesses boom in Alexandros Dervishi, Despina Papoutsis one week, Canberra for three nights and The local school on the island has only this period with tourists from all over the and Pantelis Amygdalos were chosen to Sydney for nine days.” 23 students. In order to advance them- world flocking to the Greek islands. travel around Australia on a cultural stu- Travelling Australia, the students have selves, many students have to venture to The students have made new friends dent exchange program initiated by the notice life is a complete change com- mainland Greece or the island of Rhodes. while on exchange and have also caught ‘Friends of Kastellorizo’ in Perth, who pared to the island of around 500 resi- Pantelis and Alexandros are going to up with relatives that some had here, as raise funds in conjunction with Perth City dents. From the little things to clean Rhodes this month to start their educa- well as friends from Perth that were sent Council for the exchange program be- roads, and schools, the students believe tion in Year 11. to Kastellorizo on the program, on a once tween Kastellorizo and Australia. the culture of Australia is much more se- Alexandros said, “If you want to go to a in a lifetime opportunity that the stu- Alexandros Dervishi, who is currently rious than the partying lifestyle of good university, you can’t do it from dents have soaked up. INTERNATIONAL VISITORS SPEND $9.1 BILLION IN NEW SOUTH WALES

Overseas visitors to NSW have spent over the 12-month period up 21 per more during their stay than ever before, cent on the previous year. according to the International Visitor “There was also huge growth in visitors Survey released earlier this month. from the US and Korea with both mar- Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major kets up by 16 per cent. Events, Stuart Ayres, said Tourism Re- “In fact, NSW was the top destination search Australia (TRA) figures highlight for the year in 11 of the top 15 source international visitors to NSW spent more markets for Australia: China, United K- than $9 billion for the first time up 18 ingdom, USA, South Korea, Germany, In- per cent on the previous year. dia, Hong Kong, Canada, France, Taiwan “In the year to June 2016, there were and Indonesia. 3.6 million overseas visitors who stayed “Regional NSW achieved significant almost 87 million nights and spent $9.1 growth, welcoming 718,200 visitors who billion in NSW more than 35 per cent stayed nearly 14 million nights an 11 higher than any other state and close to per cent increase on the previous year 50 per cent more overnight stays,” Mr and more than double the rate of growth Ayres said. in nights for Regional Australia.” “Tourism has a massive impact on em- Destination NSW Chief Executive Offi- ployment, with analysis highlighting cer Sandra Chipchase said the results re- NSW tourism supports almost 270,000 flected the continued success of the jobs, with around two thirds employed in NSW Government’s partnerships with in- one of the State’s 93,600 tourism busi- dustry to drive overseas visitation. nesses. “Our strategic marketing, strong indus- “China is the largest source of interna- try partnerships and securing and staging tional visitors and continues to lead of major world-class events such as Vivid NSW’s tourism growth. We saw 639,000 Sydney are delivering for NSW,” Ms visitors from China travelling to NSW Chipchase said. SEPTEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/19

Politics in the age of the web By Alexis Papachelas – Kathimerini, Athens

Would the Donald Trump phenomenon exist were it not for the web and social media? The answer is no. The eccentric mogul would not have got even as far as competing for the Republican party’s presidential nomination. The unfounded conspiracy theories to which he re- sorts, the falsification of actual facts and his constant about-turns on key issues would have knocked him out of the race long before that. Nevertheless, a large part of American society is not interested in whether Trump is lying or not. These voters don’t care about what The New York Times or the large television networks report and would rather lap up every unfiltered and sensationalist piece of information they read online. The US economy, for instance, has made an impressive recovery in the aftermath of the 2008 crisis, yet bone of Trump’s supporters believe this to be true. The so-called “angry white voters” have found their voice in order to express their anger through social media networks. They are living in their own world and it’s very difficult for anyone who does not use conspiracy theories or raw, populist rhetoric, to com- municate with them. smooth course of history. systemic tsunami has been reinforced because of ma- Trump will probably not get elected. The US’s de- In Greece for instance, the crisis and the bailout co- jor inequalities and a sense that the western middle mographic composition has changed and this favors incided with a big boom in Internet use, which has class can no longer take its security and the prospect Hillary Clinton. Even if Trump were to win the majori- played a pivotal role shaping public dialogue. What’s of improving its lot in life for granted. ty of “white” votes, he would still be unable to win more, Greeks thrive on conspiracy theories and al- We have entered a new chapter in global politics the November election. ways like to believe that they know about something and if Trump is elected, the consequences will be Yet the Trump phenomenon is here. Future histori- they believe certain people are hiding from the pub- enormous and far-reaching. But even if this doesn’t ans will analyze the rise of anti-systemic political lic. happen, we will go through a period of “Trumps” ap- forces in Greece, Britain, France and elsewhere, as History, of course, is not a field dedicated to one-di- pearing – regularly and violently – in many western well as through the Internet, as a fact that upset the mensional interpretations. Indeed, the global anti- democracies. Volunteers transforming Thessaloniki into a more user-friendly city By Stratos Karakasidis - Kathimerini, Greece

A new urban activist group in Thessaloniki wants to motivate citizens in the northern port city to take social and environmental problems into their own hands. According to a study conducted by Thessaloniki’s Aris- totle University and data provided by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OE CD), the city has 2.14 square meters of public green space per resident, far below the 9 square meters minimum recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Ecothess is the brainchild of Orestis Trasanidis, a graduate of the university’s school of civil engineering. He came up with the idea while writing a dissertation on the issue of sustainable urban development. The non- ly help create a better quality of life and a cleaner envi- over the park and the intervention was carried out with governmental group, which was set up by Trasanidis ronment,” he said. the aim of creating a pleasant environment for the peo- with help from friends and fellow students, got down to In one of their most important campaigns, E cothess ple in the area as well as attracting people from other work as soon as it was formed in 2015. worked to turn a neglected green area in the center of neighborhoods,” said Elisavet Charalambidou, an archi- “We believe that citizens are key to solving the prob- Thessaloniki, opposite the headquarters of public tect. lems of today’s cities. People need to understand that broadcaster ERT3, into a “smart” park. “The result is a model for parks in Thessaloniki and the most direct and effective solutions [to problems in “Our goal was to make a park using environmentally the rest of the country,” she said. cities] are the result of the residents’ own initiatives,” friendly materials and technological equipment,” said Despite difficulties in the early stages, Ecothess even- Trasanidis said in a recent interview with Kathimerini. fellow activist Andreas Batsilas, an architect. tually managed to attract private funding for their cam- “We need bottom-up decision-making and problem- A group of about 40 individuals, mostly young me- paigns. The Technical Chamber of Thessaloniki and pri- solving models,” he said, adding that this is why we chanical engineers, worked on the project for up to nine vate firms have also lent their support to the group, need “smart” citizens. hours a day for two months. which likes to pride itself on its professional attitude A “smart” citizen, the 26-year-old explains, is an in- The benches around the park were equipped with so- and targeted interventions. formed citizen, but also one who is actively connected lar cell phone chargers. The lighting was also tweaked The bad news is that shortly after it was unveiled, the to his or her community. so as to be powered by solar energy. Because bicycles park became the target of vandals. The good news is “We believe that citizens must have access to infor- are now allowed in the park, the group installed bike that the young engineers have been approached by mation. They must also have multiple connections to racks made of wooden pallets. other municipalities asking them to transform parks in the local community and authorities, so they can active- “The Municipality of Thessaloniki agreed to let us take other districts. SEPTEMBER 2016 4/20 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

USING CRAFT FOR TEACHING OUR FAITH

There are more than 160 Scripture Teachers who vol- unteer to take special religious education in State schools in New South Wales. Amongst this group, Mrs Angela Vlahos has become a legend because of her interest in craft. Last month she organised a special workshop for other teachers to display craft materials. This was conducted at the Liverpool parish of Sts Raphael, Nicholas and Irene. The Very Rev Fr Prochoros, who had just cele- brated the morning liturgy, attended and thanked everyone for their participation. Mrs Vlahos said that her interest in craft started 10 years ago. She wanted to show children things about our Orthodox Church but noticed that sometimes they were losing interest. She decided to grab their attention with resources that match the lesson. Her aim was to make the topic parents thanking me for teaching their child as parents ture, and with the half an hour we have in Scripture, we come alive. She wanted to captivate the attention of they are learning too.” water this seed, cultivate it and nourish it. B y the time the children and get them to ask questions. “I have plenty of events that I will always remember: the children are in high school they are better prepared Mrs Vlahos added, “Our beautiful Orthodox faith, is when a child came up to me and said that they are so to face any obstacle, remembering God, Jesus, Panagia, full of life, colours and truth. So, I wanted to bring this happy to be in Orthodox scripture. When they come up our Saints and Angels. We have taught them to fight the in the lesson.” to me to give me a beautiful drawing they made of good fight.” She started making simple things like the chalice, by Panagia/Jesus and you can tell they spent ages drawing The craft workshop was a great day with teachers at- spraying a plastic cup with gold. From there, things es- it. When they are about to leave for high school and tending from all over Sydney. Angela added, “I hope calated. thank you for teaching them since Kindy. Or when they they left feeling inspired.” At the workshop she presented most of her teaching are nearly finishing university and find your email, just resources. She outlined the procedure for making each to thank you for what you have taught them.” [email protected] item. Mrs Vlahos thanked her husband, Jim, who has “We plant the seed in our children’s heart in Scrip- been very supportive in helping her. For instance, the Iconostasis and Lego Orthodox church were made by Jim. She said, “We sat down and made a plan on pen and paper and got to work. We used MDF timber for the iconostasis, but it can easily be made with a strong cardboard. We wanted something CGL Soars with success! that was easily folded when packed away and easy to transport. The epitaphio was made using a cane square It is with great delight that I announce the success Level B1 basket, artificial flowers glued on top and lights in- of the below-listed candidates in this year’s Centre KAPSANIS Petros stalled.” for the Greek Language (CGL) examinations. The ex- KARAMINTZAS Michail-Angelos A large Orthodox Church, was made by using torn egg aminations, which were held at St. Andrew’s Gram- KATSAVOUNIDIS Evangelia cartons, a cardboard box, and some materials around mar in May 2016, had the highest number of candi- MARGARIS-TARESIS Anastasios the house. E verything was then papiermache. It was dates ever in the twelve-year history of the Centre. PAPADOPOULOS Sofia then painted with acrylic paints and the roof tiles were The CGL at St. Andrew’s Grammar, an officially- THEODOROU Dimitrios made using air dry clay. recognised Examination Centre for these exams from Her pupils also study Iconography. They make a mo- Greece, has been in operation since 2005. Level B2 saic. It is actually a coloured icon and gold glitter paper. GILE Constantina-Ioanna She said, “This is such an amazing craft activity and the The grades that can be achieved for passing or all KARAMINTZAS Anastasios parents are thrilled once they see the finished Icon.” four segmentsof each of the examinations, or all five PASCHALIDOU Athina-Anna Mrs Vlahos would like to encourage all our Orthodox segmentsif Level B2 and beyond, are ‘Excellent’, WATSON Amalia Scripture Teachers to at least try to make one thing, and ‘Very Good’ and ‘Good’. slowly add other things to their collection: “People say I The CGL Committee (Mr Pavlos Iosifidis, Mrs K ate- am very crafty, but I don’t think I am. I see something, Our candidates this year achieved mostly a grade rina Reklitis, Ms E vridiki Politi and Mrs E va Tsapazi) and God enlightens me and I do it. I seek, ask and of ‘Excellent’, with some achieving a grade of ‘Very and I extend our heartfelt congratulations to the learn.” Good’. The percentages were as follows: ‘Excellent’ above-listed candidates, their families and their Watching our priests during the liturgy and trying to = 75% and ‘Very Good’ = 25%. Greek-language teachers! replicate some of the sacred items they use, finding the symbolic meaning that everything has, also made her Level A1 (8-12 year olds) The CGL Examination dates for next year are listed learn more about our faith. This knowledge then gets KERR Vasilis below: presented to the children. KYRIAKIDIS Damianos Level A1 (for children 8-12) Mrs Vlahos concluded by saying: “Let’s use our tal- PANAGODIMOS Anastasia-Christina Tuesday 16 May 2017 ents that God has given us, now that we can, so we can STERGIOU Konstantinos Level A1 (for adolescents and adults) better prepare the children for the challenges ahead. Tuesday 16 May 2017 They need it. I have learned so much and gained some Level A1 (adolescents & adults) Level A2 wonderful lessons from the children.” KAILIS Lucas Tuesday 16 May 2017 Mrs Vlahos has been teaching Orthodox Scripture for NICHOLSON Afrovite Level B1 about 18 years. Mrs Patty Pserras the coordinator at VOGIATZAKIS Celeste Tuesday 16 May 2017 Liverpool invited her. “I started with one school then Level B2 picked up five more and a high school. A t one time she Level A2 Wednesday 17 May 2017 had over 320 children, K-6. It was hard to remember all CROESER Sky Level C1 the names”! FOUFOULAS Efstathios Wednesday 17 May 2017 Due to other commitments, she now has a small flock KATSAVOUNIDIS Athanasios Level C2 of 70-80 children from years 3-6. She continued: “I have KERR Tryphon Thursday 18 May 2017 the best schools with great principals and staff. They go MARGARIS-TARESIS Kyriaki out of their way to help me and I am truly blessed.” MICHAEL Vanessa We look forward to continued growth and success The VEMA asked her what she liked most about SARANTELLOU Maria-Eleni for our Centre! teaching: “The best thing I like about teaching Scripture, STAVRIANOU Eve is learning and sharing that with the children. Being THEODOROU Alexandros Dr Angela Evangelinou-Yiannakis able to see their faces when they learn something new. VASILAS Evelina Director of the CGL at St. Andrew’s Grammar Parents talking to me and telling me that their child is VENOUTSOS Tessa (61002) August 2016 now asking them to go to church on Sundays. Also the SEPTEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/21 Our Primate’s View TWO TYPES OF FAITHLESSNESS Part B

The second type of faithlessness may result ei- spoke of the “ logos” of beings, thereby meaning the ther out of a person who believed for a period of his fundamental root that every created being received life -mainly as a child or youth - and then for one or from the one and only Logos of God. When later it was other reason lost faith “on the way”, or of a person necessary for God’s Logos to become incarnate within who never believed because of pride or thoughtless- the world, it is only natural that He comes to bear witness and never wished to repent. ness precisely for this already pre-existing and neglected love of God towards the world. Thus the Son bears In both cases we usually have no longer to do witness as to who the F ather is, both during the Cre- with a Sober or modest - if we may say so - atheism, as ation of the world and during the Incarnation. The F a- we have already described it, but with a negation of all ther also bears witness as to who the Son is, in both transcendent authority which is dynamically ex- cases. When one does not accept with one’s faith this pressed as polemical atheism. The faithless person of witness, always “in the Holy Spirit” of the Son for the this type has an unexplainable wrath against faith. It is Father and of the F ather for the Son, then one is not as if one wants to take revenge for the contradiction merely “ignorant” and “doubting”, but becomes clear- of one’s personal vision or as if one feels that one has ly an accuser of God, whether consciously or subcon- the special task of protecting one’s fellow people from sciously. For the negation of such witness, that goes false hopes. It is obvious that this type of unbeliever through all phases of divine economy, cannot but ex- looks at believers not only with arrogance but also pose God as supposedly a liar. Thus John concludes his with enmity. He does not consider his inability to be- thought by directly relating Creation and Incarnation, lieve as his own defect and personal fault, but regards or as it is also called, the first and the second creation: it as strength and wisdom of which simplistic believers “He who does not believe God has made him a liar, be- are deprived. Now if the polemical atheist were to of- cause he has not believed in the testimony that God fend only his fellow people with his faithlessness, then has borne to his Son. And this is the testimony, that the matter would certainly be unjust and sad; it would God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” (1 not be insolence and blasphemy. With polemical athe- John 5, 10-11). ism, however, one transcends “the boundaries” and By ARCHBISHOP offends God Himself. From what has been said above it is obvious STYLIANOS that since God, both with the act of the unified cre- OF AUSTRALIA The Apostle John clearly characterises this type ation (Genesis) and with the act of unified salvation of unbeliever by saying that “he who does not believe (Incarnation), gave the irrefutable testimony of His God has made him a liar” (1 John, 5, 10), thereafter ex- love for the world in the person of His Son - as pre- plaining how one exposes God as liar with one’s faith- eternal Logos and as Crucified Logos - there is ab- lessness! John’s basic teaching is the Logos of God, as solutely no excuse for any intelligent person to be God’s boundless love for the world. It is mainly for this faithless. The Scripture, therefore, rightfully considers reason that John was named “the disciple of love” and faithlessness to be a “ privilege” only for the “ fool”: not only because he was “the disciple whom Jesus “The fool said in his heart, there is no God” (Psalm 14, loved” (John 13, 23). F or John not only saw the rela- 1). It is this general “ information” for all people con- tionship of God with the world as love; he also saw cerning God’s love that St. Paul appealed to, as is God’s very essence as love, boundless love. He did not known, in order to remind the responsibility each per- praise any other perfection of God, whether His wis- son has before God which precisely renders him unac- dom or His power or His holiness, but only His love: countable in any case: “When Gentiles who have not “God is love” (1 John 4, 18). For this reason love of God the law do by nature what the law requires, they are a and the Logos of God are for John synonymous. law to themselves, even though they do not have the The Logos of God, expressing the essence of law” (Rom. 2, 14). God, is the love of God in general and for the world Yet, those who received the special Revelation more particularly: “For God so loved the world, that He of God, in the form of the Old and of the New Testa- gave His Only begotten Son, so that whoever believes ment, surely have an even greater responsibility in the in Him may not perish, but have eternal life” (John case of faithlessness than the various idolaters and the 3,16). But when John says the measure of God’s love Gentiles have. Again, from among the faithful of the of the world is that God “gave” His Son for the sake of two Testaments, the responsibility of the faithless of the world, one should not only imply the sacrifice of the New Testament is bitter and graver than that of Golgotha. the faithless of the Old Testament, because the Incar- It should also be reminded that the Apostle nation of God was the fullest and absolute form of John himself speaks already in the prologue of his Revelation: “In many and various ways God spoke of Gospel also of another relationship of the Son and Lo- old to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last gos of God with all beings: “all things were made days he has spoken to us by a Son” (Heb. 1, 1). In any through Him, and without Him was not anything made case it is only natural and right that one is judged ac- that was made” (John 1, 3). It is precisely for this rea- cording to the degree to which one has known or has son that John in his Revelation characterises the Son not known the truth. It is also for this reason that the and Logos of God as “ the slain lamb from the begin- Gospel concisely states that “the servant who knew ning of the world” (Rev. 5, 12). Consequently, the Son much… shall receive a severe beating” (Luke 12,47). and Logos of God is the deeper root of beings, the foundation of all existence. For this reason the Fathers Source: VOICE OF ORTHODOXY VOLUME 11 No 9 of the Church, especially St Maximos the Confessor, September 1990 SEPTEMBER 2016 6/22 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

east one social or political issue. This is from the lat- The Orthodox Church in Australia always prays for est report from the Pew Research Center. the Commonwealth of Australia and its elected repre- Just under two-thirds said that clergy spoke out on sentatives. It prays for peace, equality, fraternity and Letter one issue, such as religious liberty, homosexuality, the well-being of all. abortion, immigration, environmental issues or eco- For its part, the Christian Orthodox F aith in Aus- nomic inequality. tralia has not actively sought a role in politics. from Religious liberty was the main issue followed by It does see that it has a genuine role in speaking out concern about sexual mores. on specific matters but this is quite rare. It is bound to support a Christian moral code. From time to time this will conflict with the views of some Maroubra groups. Overall it supports freedom, valuing life, protecting marriage, fostering education, maintaining ethics, re- ducing social inequality, promoting welfare and protecting the environment. Clergy rarely address such issues as these are large- ly understood. The focus is mainly on spiritual development. While many would like to silence the Church and prohibit it from speaking out on vital issues, there is a role for some balance in beliefs and opinions in a free society. Occasionally, the need arises to educate people on controversial issues. For the most part this has been done as delicately as possible with regard for differing sensitivities. Clergy speak out! For more than 120 years, the Orthodox faithful in Australia have been quiet politically but when they Our clergy in Australia are a quiet and peaceful lot. have actedit is solely out of concern for spiritual wel- It takes something important for them to be aroused fare of the entire nation. but in recent years there have been stirrings. They It is necessary for the Church to speak up on key is- are starting to take a stance as our Orthodox Chris- sues. Otherwise the community will think that our si- tian values are challenged. It has not been an easy The results are based on a nationally representative lence means agreement. path as many are unfamiliar with public protest. sample of some 4,600 adults. The survey is both web- While speaking against matters that contradict our They are the respected leaders of their community. based and by mail. beliefs, we have always maintained a civil and re- If they do not speak out, then who will? If they do not Most people surveyed said that political speech is spectful approach. set the example, then who will? an exception. Around half of all people surveyed said Many readers may not be aware of the high regard If American experience is any guide, then more that clergy rarely or never spoke about politics. in which the Orthodox Church is held in political and Australians can expect to hear clergy speak out Generally, the US clergy have liberal ideas. They religious circles. We will maintain that position but al- against social issues. support traditional values.It was not about support- so fulfil our destiny in Australia! This includes churches, synagogues, mosques or ing a candidate. other houses of worship. It is not restricted to Greek Indeed, in the US and Australia, non-profit organi- Source: Adapted from Pew Research Center (2016). Orthodox. sations are prohibited from coming out in favour of Many Americans hear politics from the pulpit. This is because government worldwide is increasing one candidate over another. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily its intervention in personal life. This survey was important in the US with the forth- those of the VEMA or St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological Col- The US experience is that the majority of church go- coming presidential election but it also has implica- lege. ers say that their clergy have spoken out about at tions for Australia. [email protected]

Christian Dior, Gucci, Ted Baker Greeks want to remain within Katerina + Kyriacos Mavrolefteros the European Union, survey shows The overwhelming majority also wants Brussels to give national governments greater powers

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& Ray Ban Ray

3 3 3 Asked how they would respond to a referendum in Greece on whether 87487 AnzacAnza Parade,Par de MaroubraMa o br JunctionJun t on to remain in the European Union or leave, 56% of respondents claimed (at bus stop, on RTA block) ( stop, on RT bloc ) Rodenstock, they would vote to stay, while 39% would vote to leave, claims a survey carried out by Public Issue. & TTeell:: ((0022)) 99331144--00339933 In greater detail, the survey which was carried out for the Avgi newspa- Serengeti, Maui Jim, Fendi [email protected] per, reveals that 44% of the Greek people have a positive impression of the 3 European Union and 55% thinks positively of the euro. At the same time though, the survey also reveals that about 72% of respondents want Brussels to give national governments greater power, Nina Ricci, Oakley, La font with only 12% claiming the opposite. SEPTEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/23

Greeks in London still numb from Brexit vote

By YANNIS PALAIOLOGOS – we import, which did not get any cheap- Over at PeoplePerHour, a London- professional steps in London. Kathimerini, Athens er because of the crisis, have now be- based Greek tech firm, there are also no “Ambiguity regarding the future status come very expensive,” says Vaitsas. thoughts of packing up and leaving. “This quo has fueled a lot of debate among Eu- A dark cloud of uncertainty hangs over However, he says, they haven’t is a state that functions and gives incen- ropeans here,” says Victoria Seymour- the prospects of Greeks – and other Eu- thought about returning to Greece, de- tives to entrepreneurs,” says Spyros Stathopoulou, who just completed post- ropeans – working in London following spite the difficulties, mainly because of Lambrinidis, the company’s chief tech- graduate studies at Cambridge and is the British people’s decision earlier this the situation back home. Paulina already nology officer. about to start working at a London start- summer to leave the European Union. has a British passport and Grigoris is in Uncertainty appears to be greater a- up in the area of digital applications in Although negotiations for Brexit have the process of getting one. mong younger Greeks taking their first education. not even started yet, the emphasis placed by the champions of the “Leave” campaign on stemming immigration in- flows, as well as the referendum’s negative impact on economic activity, appears to have raised concerns among Greeks in London. G.S. has lived in the British capital since 1997, when he went to study there. Now he works in the real estate sector, buy- ing, selling and flipping properties. “The situation is already different with the crews working on the construction sites,” he says. “The English workers ask the Polish, Romanian and others how long they’ve been in the UK, why they came and other such questions. The climate is quite unpleasant.” G.S. says that even though he is in charge of the crews, some of their British members have questioned his presence in the country. He adds that he already knows of several Polish construction workers who have returned to their home country, while rumors are also abounding that British workers will be given priority over non-British workers. The slowdown of the property market – which is of such vital importance to the UK economy – is already being felt, as confirmed by Babis Ioannou, cofounder of and architect at ISV. “There is fear, which has led to a slump in activity,” he says. “Projects that were under way have frozen and buyers are numb.” ISV London has a staff of two, both Greeks. Is closing the office a possibility? “It’s too soon to sell,” says Ioannou. “Af- ter all, we have invested a lot of time and money in getting to know the London market. We’re maintaining a wait-and- see stance.” Brexit has presented different challenges for a Greek couple who moved to the British capital about 20 years ago. Grigoris Vaitsas and his partner Paulina launched a company called Isle of Olive, which supplies the London market with high-quality food and other natural products from Greece, about five years ago. With no prior experience in the field, the pair started importing and selling product at markets and online. In 2013, they opened a shop in the up-and-coming district of Hackney in E ast London, partly because, as Vaitsas admits, they needed a space to store their products. “Before, we kept them at Paulina’s flat, on the third floor of a building without an elevator,” he says. The company did well and this year was selected by Amazon to be one of the 55 stores that supplies the company’s new service, Amazon Fresh, which allows users to purchase fresh products online. The decline of the pound in the aftermath of the referendum was the first worry they faced. “The Greek products SEPTEMBER 2016 8/24 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA ST SPYRIDON COLLEGE

The Parents & Friends Committee invites you to join our SPRING FAIR at the Junior School Food, Dance, Music by DJ Darcy, Children’s entertainment, market stalls and much more! See just what a great College you have here, right in the heart of Kingsford. Sunday 30th October, 2016 80 Gardeners Road, Kingsford – 11 am – 5 pm

For more information visit www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au SEPTEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/25

40 years on, Cyprus in race to find war missing

As Turkish troops approached his village on August 14, 1974, Georgios K antoni packed a simple meal of bread, cheese and watermelon for his family and sent them to hide in the wheat fields. Antonis Christofi, Kantoni’s grandson, was 14. It was the last time he would see his grandfather. “We were afraid because we heard people say the Turkish were killing villagers,” Christofi remembers. Kantoni refused to leave his home. He was shot dead days later, his body flung in a shallow lake a few hours’ walk from the village. His wife was killed and thrown down a nearby well. They were among more than 2,000 people who went missing in violence between Greek- and Turkish-Cypriot communities in 1963-74, which culminated with the Turkish invasion of the island that August. More than 40 years on, the task of retrieving and identifying the ghosts of Cyprus’s mass killings falls to the UN-backed Committee on Missing Persons (CMP). Its team of Turkish- and Greek-Cypriot specialists has identified the remains of about 680 people since 2008. The Turkish invasion, in response to an A thens-inspired putsch, left the island and its Turkish- and Greek- speaking communities bitterly divided. Now, as long- The grandson of Antonis Christofi holds the portrait of his grandfather, who went missing along with 2000 other people stalled peace talks foster increasing good will, the CMP during the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. – itself a rare example of cooperation between communities on the island – wants to find as many bodies as Some die. The discovery last year of around 30 bodies Each identification provides both relief at the end of possible. north of Nicosia is a case in point. decades of uncertainty, and grief over the death of the “Every missing person is a symbol of what we did to From witness statements, dig teams knew roughly hope, however forlorn, that loved ones are alive. each other,” says Turkish-Cypriot CMP member Gulden where a mass grave might be. But they only found re- Dina Papachristou, 69, has not seen her daughter, Plumer Kucuk. “Our work needs political will to contin- mains after an improbable tip-off from a 94-year-old son-in-law and 7-year-old grandson since they disap- ue.” shepherdess. Without her directions, remembered pre- peared in 1974. She still clings to a belief that they For Christofi, the CMP’s discovery of his grandpar- cisely from 42 years earlier, the bodies may have gone weren’t killed that summer. ents’ bodies in 2014 – four decades after their deaths – undiscovered. “I just want to find them,” she says, arranging black- came as a shock. “How many more years would we have been able to and-white images of the schoolboy on a tablecloth “Now we at least have a place we can visit them,” he get this information?” says Florian von K oenig, a UN strewn with family Polaroids. tells AFP, clasping a photograph of his grandfather’s representative in the CMP. “Our biggest thing we need “If that means bad news, I’m prepared.” skeleton, its right shoulder blade cratered by a bullet. – information – is increasingly hard to come by.” In Tashkent village, north of Nicosia, workmen paint a “But there is always the why. Why did these old peo- One source of hope is the decision last year to allow curbside skirting a gleaming cemetery complex. Thirty- ple die this type of death? They didn’t do anything to CMP teams access to Turkish military sites, with their five Turkish-Cypriot men killed in 1974 were finally laid anybody.” dozens of potential graves. In a white, humidity-con- to rest there this month. Hiding from the sun under a flower-print beach um- trolled hangar near Nicosia’s abandoned airport in a UN Erdinc Erdagli, head of a local missing persons com- brella, archaeologist Maria Solomou watches an earth- buffer zone, 90 identical cardboard boxes line stacks of mittee, says the CMP has identified 80 villagers found in mover scrape strips of soil from a riverbank 20 kilome- metal shelving. a mass grave near Limassol. ters east of Nicosia in the Turkish-occupied north. She In them are dozens of remains of people, some They include his own father, who he buried in 2014. has information that seven bodies are buried here. women and children, killed by Greek-Cypriot militiamen Down on his haunches, Erdagli cups his hand to shield “When you’re looking for bones you have to work in 1974 and dumped in a mass grave near the port of from the breeze a single pheasant feather – a symbol of slow,” Solomou explains. She estimates she has person- Famagusta. his father’s love for game bird hunting – and stands it ally found the remains of more than 70 people for the Forensic anthropologist F otis Andronikou says hun- beneath the marble headstone. CMP. dreds of bodies still await identification. Using DNA “You feel the pain of loss at special moments,” he The excavator unearths bone. Solomou sets about the testing, sometimes aided by a wallet, shirt or other pos- says. painstaking process of extricating the remains in the session found alongside a body, the CMP identifies “You graduate from school, get married, have a child, punishing August heat. With about 1,000 bodies still every skeleton. but your father is not with you. This is the most diffi- missing, the CMP has a problem. Most of the missing “The geneticists check the results, then we check the cult situation a man can face.” disappeared four decades ago. Witnesses to their results,” Andronikou says. “The threshold is 99.95 per- deaths or hurried burials grow old, misremember. cent [certainty]. [AFP] Ancient Greece’s restored tower of winds keeps its secrets

It is said to be the world’s first weather station, to “It was, we believe, the world’s first weather sta- Based on the most prominent theory, a hydraulic date back more than 2,000 years, and to have been tion,” Stelios Daskalakis, head of conservation, told mechanism powered a water clock device with water used by merchants to tell the time – even in darkness. Reuters. flowing from a stream on the Acropolis hill. The Tower of the Winds, still standing at the foot of “It’s located in the Roman Agora [market place] as it “It’s unique in that such an important work was not Athens’s ancient Acropolis hill despite attempts by was of great value for the merchants to read the a temple but had a utilitarian use,” Daskalakis said. Lord Elgin to move it to Britain, has been restored and weather and also tell the time their goods would ar- “We don’t know who funded it, whether it was private reopened to the public for the first time in nearly 200 rive,” he said. or a high-ranking official. years. Atop its fully preserved roof, made of 24 marble “The only thing justifying such a high cost is A thens No one knows who funded its lavish construction – slabs, rests a Corinthian capital which possibly served wanting to upgrade the Roman Agora.” the octagonal monument is made almost entirely of as the base of a bronze wind vane in the form of sea Its use as a clock tower and weather station was Pentelic marble, the same used for the Parthenon and god Triton, Daskalakis said. short-lived. rarely found in buildings other than temples. Beneath it is a frieze of eight Anemoi – wind gods of Its mechanism is believed to have been looted dur- At nearly 14 meters (46 feet) tall, it is credited to the Greek mythology – each facing a different direction. ing the Roman period and has never been found, architect and astronomer Andronicus of Cyrrhus, but And beneath that, lines of a sundial. Daskalakis said. all these years later no one knows exactly how it The greatest mystery remains how the clock worked worked. at night. SEPTEMBER 2016 10/26 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

During the first week of August, Victoria Police held its annual Chaplaincy Conference, where all of its chaplains from the state of Victoria attended. The conference is held to inform the chaplains of new police policies, tactics and procedures and to keep the chaplains up to date with what is happening within Victoria Police. Within the chaplaincy of Victoria police we two priests from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia are members who oversee a certain police area. Fr Chris Dimo- liamis, based at the Parish of St Eustathios is responsible for all the police services within the city of Port Philip. Fr Emmanual Lykopandnis, Parish priest of St Dimitrios of Moonee Ponds, who is responsible for all the police services within the city of Moonee Valley, including the air wing based at Es- sendon airport. Fr Chris Dimoliamis and Fr Emmanual Lykopandnis with the Victorian police commissioner Graham Ashton during the proceedings of the conference. Channel Seven apologises for ‘Macedonia’ blunder It took more than three weeks, but Kerry Stokes AC, Seven Network Chair- man, finally responded to the furore caused by the Channel’s coverage of the 2016 Rio Olympics Opening Ceremony, during which presenters Andrew Gaze and Bruce McAvaney referred to FYROM as being the home of Alexander the Great and King Phillip. In a letter addressed to the Greek Em- bassy in Australia, the head of the network notes: “Greece can proudly claim Alexander the Great as one of their own. We apologise. It was not our network’s intention to disappoint our viewers. I do hope you will accept our sincere apolo- gies for the miscommunication”. The response comes almost a month after the incident took place, during which period most major Greek Aus- tralian organisations issued statements condemning the comments made during the national delegations’ parade, de- scribing King Philip II of Macedonia as FY- ROM’s first Olympian champion. Most notably, the Greek Community of Melbourne and the Pan-Macedonian As- sociation sent letters to the network, followed by a joint statement. “To simply say in a throw-away line that FYROM’s first gold medal at the games was won by King Philip of Mace- don (Alexander the Great’s Father) is wrong on so many levels and offensive to every Hellene and philhellene who know their history and understands the importance of identity and cultural line- age”, read the letter sent to Kerry Stokes by GCM President, Bill Papastergiadis, echoing the sentiment of the Greek Aus- tralians, flooding the network with letters and calls of outrage. Andrew Gaze had immediately responded to these expressions of outrage on Twitter, saying that “If it is incorrect or wasn’t communicated correctly, I sin- cerely apologise,” sharing a photo of the script. Kerry Stokes’ apology fails to ex- plain how the claim found its way to the presenters’ script. More importantly, there’s still no ex- planation as to how the same statements came to be voiced, simultaneous- ly, by the presenters of the event for NBC, in the United States. The American network has yet to respond to the letters addressed by the leaders of the Greek American community. SEPTEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 11/27

MESSAGE OF ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH BARTHOLOMEW FOR SEPTEMBER 1 - ENVIRONMENT DAY

Prot. No. 887 tradition and preserves the broader parameters of our cultural legacy and values, to bring to the attention of + BARTHOLOMEW all responsible people – and every individual in general By God’s mercy Archbishop of Constantinople-New – the need to protect the global cultural inheritance as Rome well, alongside the natural environment; for both of And Ecumenical Patriarch these are endangered by climate change, military con- To the Plenitude of the Church: flict and other similar problems throughout the world. Grace, peace and mercy from our Lord, God and The cultural treasures belong to all of humanity Savior Jesus Christ, inasmuch as they are religious and spiritual monu- Maker of all creation ments; moreover, as eternal expressions of human intellect, they do not belong exclusively to nations within Beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord, the borders of which they are found. Nevertheless, they In following over many years the destructive run the same risks as the natural environment, which is developments in the world’s environment, the Holy and why the protection of the environment and the preser- Great Mother Church of Christ vigilantly assumed the vation of the invaluable principles of civilization are initiative to establish the beginning of each ecclesiasti- equally mandated for the welfare of all humanity. cal year as a day dedicated to God’s creation, inviting all The corruption or destruction of a single cultur- of the Orthodox and Christian world to offer prayers al monument in any country wounds the ecumenical and supplications to the Maker of all things, in thanks- legacy of all humankind. Thus, it is the duty and obliga- giving for the great gift of creation as well as in suppli- tion of everyone, and especially of every civilized na- cation for its protection and safeguarding from every tion, to strengthen all measures for protecting and pre- assault, both visible from humankind and invisible. serving such monuments forever. Furthermore, each le- Thus, this year too, on this auspicious day, from the E c- gal and lawful nation must avoid any action that affects umenical Throne we remind you of the need to awaken the integrity of its “global monuments” or alters the the conscience of all people to the ecological challenges environment. In fact, the voracious need to satisfy our spiritual values that these represent. faced today by our planet. material needs assuredly causes spiritual poverty, We are conscious of the Pan-Orthodox declara- The contemporary rapid technological pro- which in turn culminates in the destruction of the envi- tion about “our greatest responsibility to hand down a gress, together with the potential and provision that ronment: “The roots of the ecological crisis are spiritual viable natural environment to future generations and this offers to the modern world, must not disorientate and ethical, inhering within the heart of each man,” as to use it according to divine will and blessing” (Encycli- us so as not to take into serious consideration the cost the same Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox cal of the Holy and Great Council) and “that not only of each technological enterprise on the natural environ- Church emphasized in addressing the contemporary present, but also future generations have a right to en- ment and civilization, as well as all the related negative world, adding that “the yearning for continuous growth joy the natural goods granted to us by the Creator” (De- consequences, which may – and are proven to – be very in prosperity and an unfettered consumerism inevitably cision of the Holy and Great Council on “The Mission of dangerous and destructive for creation and all things lead to a disproportionate use and depletion of natural the Church”), we invite everyone to mobilize their living on our planet. resources.” (See the decision of the document “The forces, and in particular their prayers, in the struggle for Indeed, along with our brother Primates and Mission of the Church”) the protection of the environment in its broader sense, Hierarchs of the local holy Orthodox Churches, we also Accordingly, then, beloved brothers and sis- namely in its inseparable interconnection to the natural proclaimed this need during the Holy and Great Council, ters, as we commemorate today the feast of St. Symeon and human-induced cultural environment. And we be- which with God’s blessing we convened last June on the the Stylite, that great pillar of our Church, whose mon- seech our Lord Jesus Christ – through the intercessions great island of Crete under our modest presidency, ument – like other wonderful archeological sites in Syr- of the All-Holy and All-Blessed Theotokos, the F orerun- highlighting in its Encyclical that “through the contem- ia and the whole world, such as the famous region of ner John with his voice crying in the wilderness, Syme- porary development of science and technology, our life ancient Palmyra that are listed among the foremost on the Stylite and all the Saints – to protect our com- is changing radically. And what brings about a change in global monuments of our cultural heritage – experi- mon natural and cultural home from every assault and the life of man demands discernment on his part, since enced the barbaric consequences of war, we would like destruction, granting and showering His unceasing and apart from significant benefits... we are also confronted to underline another equally significant problem, name- abundant blessing on the whole world. with the negative consequences of scientific progress,” ly the cultural crisis, which has also become a global is- In contrite soul and heartfelt prayer, we pray including the threat to and even the destruction of the sue of our time. After all, environment and culture are with all the faithful to the Maker of all Creation – both natural environment. concepts and values that are parallel and interconnect- visible and invisible, spiritual and intellectual – to grant We need to have constant vigilance, informa- ed. As the environment of humankind, the world was us “seasonable and favorable winds, steady and calm tion and education in order to understand clearly the created through the single-worded divine command: rainfall, for the prosperous flourishing of the earth,” relationship between today’s ecological crisis and our “Let there be!” (See Gen. 1.3, 6, and 14) Later, civiliza- while providing the world with “profound peace, which human passions of greed, materialism, self-centered- tion was created by humanity, endowed with rational surpasses all understanding,” and we invoke upon ness, and rapacity, which result in and lead to the cur- intellect, which in turn implies and imposes a sense of everyone throughout our planet-home the grace and rent crisis that we face. Therefore, the only way out of respect toward culture inasmuch as man is – and is re- boundless mercy of God. this impasse is our return to the original beauty of order spected – as the crown of divine creation. and economy, of frugality and ascesis, which can guide This is why we regard it as our duty, from this September 1, 2016 us toward a more careful management of the natural Sacred Center of Orthodoxy, which retains the unique Your fervent supplicant to God Emanuel Tsardoulias Community Library, is now open

The Emanuel Tsardoulias Community Library, locat- ful, and much needed project Emanuel accomplished lifeline of pleasure and education. They are an indis- ed at 362-372 New Canterbury Road, Dulwich Hill, for the community in the area he grew up in.” pensable resource for anyone looking to widen their NSW, is now open. Earlier this year, Council approached local authors, intellectual horizon.” Emanuel Tsardoulias’s widow, Zoi, said the family artists and performers to be ambassadors of the new Kretser is one of many ambassadors who suggested are truly honoured the library has been named after library. Ambassadors’ gave valuable input, providing a fellow local’s work be purchased for the new library, the late Councillor, who passed away in 2014 at the book recommendations for the library to purchase. showing the books – and the library itself – to have age of 38. Library ambassador Libby Gleeson AM, acclaimed strong community-based appeal. “Emanuel was all about the community, so it seems children’s author said, “Libraries are incredibly signifi- The new contemporary library space is larger than fitting the library be named after such a prominent cant, indeed vital, in any community.” the original Dulwich Hill Library (now closed). It will and much loved member of the community. Library ambassador and novelist Michelle de Kretser host regular activities for the community, as well as “He loved reading in his spare time, and it gives me agrees with Gleeson. She said, “Writers grow from housing thousands of new books and DVDs. and his twin sons Stavros and Dimitri great comfort readers. At the periods in my life when I haven’t been that we can visit the library knowing what a wonder- able to afford to buy books, libraries have provided a 12/28 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA SEPTEMBER 2016

Delphi Bank proudly presents Bribie Island Retreat and Recreation Centre the 23rd Greek Film Festival;

an explosion of Hellenic expression

The Delphi Bank 23rd Greek Film Festi- from three different countries, including An Activity of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia val, a core component of the Hellenic- winner of the Oscar for Best Supporting Australian annual cultural calendar will Actor, J.K Simmons (Whiplash, 2015) and What’s been happening? travel far and wide this year, officially winner of the Hellenic Film Academy We have continued to work internally to improve our site and range of activities; whilst also kicking off at Sydney’s Palace Norton Award for Best Supporting Actor (the focussing externally on marketing, advertising and networking to build relationships with a Street Cinema on Tuesday 11 October. late Minas Chatzisavvas). Director Chris- range of school, youth, sporting, Church and community groups. We have also linkedwith As the official Naming Rights sponsor, to-pher Papakaliatis, who is well-known youth service providers to implement programs which are geared towards employment, Delphi Bank is pleased to continue a long for smashing Greek box-office records training, cultural awareness, general well-being of our youth and community at large. and beneficial relationship with the Fes- with his spirited film ‘What if…’ (2013), Several new organisations have chosen to stay at the Retreat including the following: tival, and the communities that present continues to strengthen the calibre of 9 Murarrie State School 9 Carers Link this much loved event in each participat- Greek film with his latest feature. 9 Pine Community School 9 Close to my Heart ing city, which constantly allures an ever- A strong supporter of the Hellenic-Aus- 9 Chameleon Regional Community 9 Tag 5 Ltd growing, loyal audience all around the tralian community, Jim Sarris is delighted Housing Accommodation & Welfare 9 Brisbane Cursillo Movement nation. to see the Greek Film Festival set the 9 Church of Christ, Zillmere 9 Deception Bay Community Youth

Delphi Bank, key principal, Jim Sarris stage for Greek film to “take on new 9 Philoptochos Society of St George Programs 9 'Circle of Senior Citizens & Friends' 9 Scripture Union QLD maintains “Delphi Bank’s partnership growth and importance in the world Mt Gravatt 9 Youth with a Mission, Brisbane with the Greek Film Festival over the scene.” As both organisations grow into 9 Destiny Church 9 Caboolture Baptist Church past eight years has helped make avail- the future, Delphi Bank looks forward to able the best that Greek cinema has to the Festival presenting a showcase of ex- offer by supporting a bold generation of quisite independent cinema yet again. filmmakers with a fresh vision of Scheduled to take place from 11 Octo- Greece.” ber 20 November 2016, the Festival The Festival will open with the much travels to Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, anticipated premiere of Christopher Pa- Brisbane, Perth and Canberra presenting pakaliatis’ feature ‘Worlds Apart’ a a diverse program of contemporary fea- deeply tender tale of cross-continental ture films, documentaries, short films love. and a tribute to Greece’s most adored Set in modern Greece, the film debuts comedic actor Thanasis Veggos. For tick- Donations with an internationally acclaimed cast ets: www.greekfilmfestival.com.au We are extremely grateful for donations and bequests which have been received to date. If you would like to contribute, please feel welcome to contact the Board of Management President - Mr Emanuel Kallinicos on 07 3391 1202, or the Coordinator - Matt Bender on 0419 509 935. In particular we are currently seeking donations & funding to contribute towards building of a Shower Block ($40,000 estimate), Multi-purpose sports court ($80,000 estimate) & upgrade to commercial kitchen ($25,000 estimate). These projects are crucial in future development of the Retreat & will rely on funding & donations to proceed.

Bribie Paniyiri – Sunday 3 July 2016

Bribie Paniyiri once again proved to be a stunning success! We were blessed with a sunny day, which set the scene for over 4000 people to join in the celebration. Thank you to the organising Committee for your tireless efforts, and volunteers who make this event possible. Also we thank the many visitors who came from not only from the local and regional communities, but also from Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast to enjoy the day. Next year the event is scheduled for Sunday 2nd July, 2017.

Matt Bender, Coordinator –August 2016 Bribie Island Retreat and Recreation Centre - www.gobribieisland.org

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Where the Ancient Faith + 21st century media merge Telling their stories – global persecution & displacement of Christians

By Chris Vlahonasios TRANSFIGURE Media

- PART 1 -

Podcast transcript from The Moving Icon show on the Orthodox Christian Network (OCN) in 2015.

Most of you are aware of the intense persecution being experienced by Christians in the world. Whether it be the genocides in Iraq and Syria or the frequent turmoil in occupied-Palestine, much has been said in the media about their suffering and many of us have seen the graphic photos online. However, you ever thought about what happens af - terwards to those who survive? E ven when they flee to places of safe haven, like America or Australia, are their troubles really over? This is perhaps the most overlooked aspect of the nightmare as we, living in the Western World, like to think the worst is over. Unfortunately, even in supposedly pluralistic societies, these refugees are not necessarily made to feel welcomed. Instead, fear, prejudice and insensitivity leads to alienation and de- Radhda (left) and Muna in a scene from the indie film “Amreeka” spair. Today I’d like to discuss two very different exam- Along the way they come across a host of characters ples: the 2009 indie film, Amreeka, which explores in- who help Thea better understand her mother, identi- tolerance and Not Even My Name , a biography by ty and coming to terms with history. According to the Thea Halo about her mother surviving the Christian book, over 1.5 million Armenians, 750,000 Assyrians Genocide in Asia-Minor. These are unique stories be- and 350,000 Pontian Greeks died on the death cause not only are they based on actual accounts but marches. A total of 2.6 million Christians wiped out these stories are written by women giving us a differ- along with another 1.5 million Greeks exiled. Imagine, ent perspective on these terrible chapters in history. millions of people being forced to wander the country-side, shepherded around like sheep. Another in- One story at a time teresting fact not mentioned in the book is the word Amreeka (Arabic for ‘America’) tells the story of ‘genocide’ was created by Raphael Lemkin in 1943 Palestinian Christians, single-mother Muna and her who was greatly moved by the plight of these Chris- teenage son, Fadi. Set in a blazing hot Palestine, Mu- tians. It’s also worth noting recently ISIS rebels de- na is an educated woman struggling to cope with stroyed a church and memorial dedicated to the Ar- working at an inefficient bank, negotiating Israeli menian Genocide in Syria. checkpoints, looking after her mother and overcom- The movie and book reveal the pressures Western ing her husband’s infidelity. However, after being societies impose on these people, inspired by igno- granted a Green Card they decide to leave their an- rance and fear. Muna and her family are frequently cient homeland and go live with Muna’s sister, Radh- mistaken for Muslims or Iraqis and therefore, absurd- da, and her young family in suburban Chicago. Muna ly, terrorists. Fuelled by over-zealous patriotism and hopes this opportunity will provide her talented son a prejudice, this negative environment begins to have better life and the chance to re-invent herself. But, an impact on Fadi at school. In an act of rebellion and upon leaving sunny Palestine they arrive to receive a seeking acceptance, Fadi intimates his cousin, Salma, welcome that’s anything but warm. In a cold, greyish to become ‘more American’; unfortunately this in- post-9/11 America, Iraq has just been invaded and volves adopting the gangster lifestyle. This attitude of suspicions are high. Beside politics, we soon learn indifference and self-destruction turns the intelligent Muna feels inferior to her sister, a slim women mar- and talented Fadi into a broken and frustrated soul – ried to a doctor living in a big home. On top of this was this the ‘reinvention’ promised? To him, and Muna keeps several failings from her family, including many others, they feel this conformity and rejection losing all her savings and working at a White Castle of one’s heritage is the only way to be accepted. The cover of “Not Even My Name” restaurant. This conflict between Old and New World-views is The second item is the book Not Even my Name , perfectly illustrated when Radhda uses the analogy of which recounts the true story of Thea’s mother, Sano, a tree being uprooted from its home and transplant- gins which cannot be forgotten. We see that Radh- a Pontian-Greek, who survived the exile of Christian ed to a different place where it struggles to grow. da’s home-sickness has made her insensitive to oth- minorities from Turkey in what’s commonly called Radhda (born in Palestine) and her daughter (born in ers not familiar with her culture. However, this con- the ‘Armenian Genocide’ during 1915-1923. The story America) are two extremes. F or example, Radhda flict is reconciled in a scene between Manu and F adi. was inspired by Thea’s life-long desire to help her tells her daughter that their home is effectively on Fadi makes a good point that how can one expect mother find her ancestral home. Based on a handful Palestinian soil. In response Salma calls her delusion- things to remain the same when starting again in a of details, as her mother was only 10 years old at the al telling her that they live in America. Although she very different country. time, this mother and daughter team travel to Turkey may have a point, she loses merit when one looks at and go a journey that uncovers difficult memories. her self-destructive lifestyle and rejection of her ori- To be continued SEPTEMBER 2016 14/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Arts, Food & Wine Editor: Imogen Coward

Melbourne Town Hall

Melbourne sets the standard

By Dr Ann Coward visitors have plenty of reasons to remain in the city and lation of the City of Melbourne is close to 129,000, it spend their money there. Sydney, take note. gives us some indication of how many people in the Years ago, when I was doing research for my doctoral The Sydney Festival, held every January, was the high- city, on a daily basis, don’t actually live there. Workers thesis, I surveyed people in Brisbane, Sydney and Mel- light of the Sydney calendar for quite a few years. The employed within the city itself amount to a little over bourne. One set of questions I asked related to whether evenings are pleasant at that time of year, and it’s a de- 450,000, so the rest, we presume, are tourists, visitors, or not residents had travelled to other cities to visit mu- light to stroll around the city with one’s family. Now, of shoppers, and students. Visitors stay in Melbourne for seums, view exhibitions, and so on. Living in Sydney, I course, there’s the Vivid festival as well, which offers a two days, on average, with the number of people who was amazed at the difference in the responses from vibrant and grandiose lightshow for young and old. But remain in the city, between the hours of 6 pm to 6 am, Brisbanites and Melbournians. Those living in Brisbane what do people do when they catch a train, or bus, to being around 391,000. Now, that’s a lot of people to could point to a long history of travelling interstate to see the clever ways in which buildings have been lit? feed, entertain, and accommodate. Together, the cafes, take advantage of cultural offerings. In comparison, Apart from walking around in the cold air, I mean. Syd- bistros and restaurants can seat, in one sitting, almost those living in Melbourne indicated a total disinterest in ney is a city of office blocks, and when the workers go 193,000 people. To keep these businesses and the ho- going to anything outside their own city. It was only in home, all that’s left is a sprinkling of wine bars, a few tels chugging along nicely, there has to be something - the recent few weeks, however, that I have come to ful- pubs, and a smattering of restaurants. And these are other than shopping - for people to do in the city which ly appreciate the Melbournian response. spread far and wide. It’s a city to work in. Melbourne, extends into the evening. Enter Events Melbourne. It’s well known that Melbourne prides itself on being on the other hand, focusses very firmly on offering rea- Melbourne has just finished holding its annual Spring a cultural capital, but what I didn’t understand, or ap- sons for staying in the city at night. Fashion Week, a major drawcard for the city, organised preciate, was how much this is the result of determined According to figures collected by the City of Mel- by the City of Melbourne’s events arm, E vents Mel- planning by the City of Melbourne; to not only attract bourne, on average, 854,000 people use the city every bourne. If any city or town wants to attract visitors, the visitors to the city, but to make sure the residents and day. If one considers that the estimated resident popu- planning of F ashion Week offers many lessons worth learning and emulating. To begin with, there’s its reason for being, its raison d’etre. Events Melbourne focusses on providing reasons for visitors to not only Urban Bloom Runway come to the City of Melbourne, but to stay within the city and to spend money within the city. So basic, yet only possible if the city has cafes and so on that are easily accessible and affordable, where transport is a breeze and the streets don’t resemble parking lots. This is not to suggest that Melbourne doesn’t have its problems, with homelessness, drug trafficking and graffiti being high on the list, all of which, no doubt, would be far worse if the city was allowed to die after knock-off time. Planning for the Melbourne Spring F ashion Week (MSFW) begins at least a year in advance. The core organisers in Events Melbourne amount to only five people. According to Pamela Darragh (one of the five), by the time contractors and volunteers are taken into ac- count, the number of people involved reaches a total of one hundred. SEPTEMBER 2016 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/31

Cont. from previous page for the Moving Image (ACMI) to see the screening of the 2016 Australian F ashion Film Awards finalists’ films. The week was launched at the RMIT Design Hub, with Wanting to take home a new skill? Learn to make a fas- the highlight of the Week being the runway shows, held cinator at a milliner’s workshop. Hoping to work in fash- this year at the Melbourne Town Hall. The shows are ion? Now, this is where the organisers shone, in my curated by Events Melbourne, each designer required opinion. to have their wares for sale within the city’s boundaries. Certainly, there was plenty on offer if you like to par- Fashion shows in Milan, London, New York, and Sydney ty. But Events Melbourne proved themselves not only have become increasingly under threat due to, firstly, capable of bringing the spotlight to focus on the educa- the cost to designers to show their wares, and second- tional opportunities provided within Melbourne for de- ly, the changing nature of selling fashion. With bloggers signers, visual merchandisers and so on, they also occupying the front row of fashion shows, rather than showed how agile they are at bringing other events un- buyers who are looking months ahead, customers are der their F ashion Week umbrella. F or example, Open wanting to immediately purchase what is being shown. Colleges, organised for a group of their F ashion stu- Melbourne offers a different way of doing things. The dents to attend Fashion Week. Mindful of the fact that clothes shown are available in stores, and there is no students need to engage with industry experts, Open charge for the designers to show their clothes. What Colleges’ Fashion Design Program Manager, Mimma the designers give up is the right to choose which out- Gatto, approached the TFIA , the training arm of the fits from their collection are to be shown, when they Council of Textile and F ashion Industries of Australia, are to be shown, and how they are to be shown. What and asked them to arrange a day of lectures and inter- they gain is exposure. It’s a trade-off, but it appears to views. work for both the designers involved and the organis- The day’s panel discussions and interviews, held at ers. Designers shown this year included, amongst oth- the Kangan Institute, Richmond, featured amongst others, Carla Zampatti, Akira, Bianca Spender, Romance ers Carla Woidt, General Manager of Design Operations Was Born, Daniel Avakian, and alice McCALL. & Innovation at Country Road, Melinda Tually, Co-ordi- Around the runways themselves (held in the after- nator of Fashion Revolution AU & NZ, and Carol Stubbs, Cmeo Collective noon and the evening which allows for time to eat out, Wool Lab Consultant, The Woolmark Company. This maybe go to a show afterwards or have supper out) event was then taken up by F ashion Week organisers, there were other events within or close to the Town incorporated within the MSFW calendar of events, and Hall. In the next city block, City Square, a temporary offered to the public, at no cost if a student or at a cost MSFW Hub was set up where you could watch free of $20 if not. This low pricing was a reflection of the lunchtime runway shows by the likes of Jack London ticket prices for much of what was on offer during Fash- and PUMA, get advice on hairstyling, have the chil- ion Week. The MSFW organisers attempted to make as dren’s face painted, learn how to make a floral crown, many of the events accessible and affordable (a lot of and so on. (Hub is a real buzz word in Melbourne at the the events were free). moment - there are ‘hubs’ everywhere which can be To get a glimpse of the energy and excitement leading abit confusing.) But it’s what was organised to comple- up to and during Melbourne’s Spring F ashion Week, ment the Town Hall’s and F ashion Hub’s events, with type in MSFW 2016 + YouTube on the web, and you will their most impressive array of sponsors, that was even come across videos of the week’s events, as well as the more amazing. frantic last minute touches by Fashion students to their To begin with, there’s communication. Make an en- offerings for the emerging designers runway shows. quiry, and from then on you will have received newslet- When placed in the context of all that E vents Mel- ter updates of, not only what’s happening, but also if bourne pulled together under the MSFW umbrella, tickets are still available to any of the events. Want to keeping in mind that the entire week was a product of shop till you drop? With Little Bourke Street the venue the City of Melbourne’s planning to support its busi- for Emporium Melbourne’s Opening Runway, coupled nesses, it becomes clear that Melbourne works hard at with Vogue’s sponsorship, over 300 CBD retailers kept keeping itself alive and vibrant. Melbourne earns the their doors open until 10 pm to herald the Week’s shop- reputation for being a cultural centre, or, to put it in a-thon. Tired of shopping? The National Gallery of Melbournese, a cultural ‘hub’. Victoria (NGV) offered behind the scenes tours during Fashion Week. Or you could visit the Australian Centre

Stella Jean at Christine

Creative Industries Exhibition, MSFW 2016 Swish at Christine SEPTEMBER 2016 16/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Travel Lesvos Leaf of a plane tree This eastern Aegean island encapsulates perhaps better than any other Greece’s tradition, culture and spirit By H. ARGYROPOULOS coffee at one of the establishments with beautiful views of- “Nowhere else on Earth do the fers ample compensation. Sun and the Moon reign togeth- A trip to the petrified forest er so harmoniously, share their around Sigri in the northwest of power so fairly, as on this piece the island takes more than two of the Earth where, who knows, hours from Mytilene, but is re- in what incredible times, what warding in itself as the road god, on a whim cut and blew winds through verdant villages away this leaf of a plane tree in before suddenly emerging into a the midst of the ocean” lunar landscape, with petrified Rich in beauty and natural re- trunks scattered over an exten- sources, Lesvos, Greece’s third- sive area as well as on display largest island after Crete and in an excellent museum. A dip in Evia, is an integral part of the the crystal-clear waters at Sigri country’s identity, an important is highly recommended. contributor to its history, econo- Southeast of Sigri is Eressos, my, culture and gastronomy. according to many the most Elytis was preceded by other tastefully developed spot on the notable contributors to the arts island, with a beautiful beach and letters - poets Sappho and and few tourism-related eye- Alcaeus in antiquity, novelists sores. Stratis Myrivilis and Argyris Eftal- Nearer Mytilene (27 km) it’s iotis, as well as painter Theophi- which a large part of Greek gas- the high season. Perhaps second only to ouzo worth visiting Agiasos, a quaint los in more recent times. tronomy has developed. In addition, the abundance of in fame is Molyvos. This pictur- town 480 m above sea level A view of the capital Mytilene Although the drink wasn’t “in- natural and cultural attractions esque village, once a rather in- nestled in the midst of an exqui- from the sea confirms the sense vented” here, Plomari - a small means there are plenty of op- significant seaside settlement in site pine forest ideal for walks of the “unique” which the islands town on the southern coast - is tions for excursions, and while the northwest, with an imposing and with a pleasantly laid-back of the eastern Aegean exude. acclaimed as the mecca of the island is not famous for its medieval castle and narrow pace of life. Buildings whose styles cannot ouzophiles. Lesvos is better beaches, there are numerous cobblestone streets - now at- In the Gulf of Gera and Plo- be categorized stand alongside known for the quality of its fine sandy stretches. Vatera, ex- tracts more visitors than any mari you’ll find many fine ouzo traditional stone houses and farming produce than as a tending for several kilometers in other place on the island. Al- establishments. The potent spirit more modern apartment blocks tourist destination per se, al- the south, is the highlight. though the proliferation of signs also flows at the Sardine Festi- - all surrounded by the greenery though its large size provides for rooms, bikes and “best Eng- val, hosted every August in that abounds on much of Lesvos. ample space and plenty of lish breakfast” spoils the picture Kalloni, which has an attractive This motley architecture - with choice for quiet holidays even in somewhat, a stroll to the castle beach. aesthetics to match, from the in the morning followed by a ATHENSPLUS exterior decor of wooden win- dows and imposing 19th-century mansions to churches where elements of Byzantine, Gothic and even Ottoman architecture harmoniously coexist - vividly reflects the history of the place. The Romans, Genoese and Turks left indelible marks and monuments in successive periods. Geographical proximity meant stong economic and cultural ties with Asia Minor during 1 2 3 4 Ottoman rule, which lasted several centuries, spurring industri- Where to stay What to see al development in the late 19th Getting there Where to eat century. In fact the people of Lesvos are renowned fortheir There are several flights a day In the capital Mytilene: Archontiko In Mytilene: Aspros Gatos (tel The Μuseum of Industrial Olive Oil industriousness. from Athens and their number in Mytilinis (tel 22510.46681, www.ar 61670), classic dishes in quiet garden Production, at Aghia Paraskevi creases in summer (Αthens Airport, tel chontikomytilinis.gr), expertly restored surroundings; Ermis (2 Kornarou & Er (22530.32300); the petrified forest and The serene landscape, domi- 210.353.0000). Τhere are also ferry prewar mansion near the center with mou), historic taverna in Epano Skala, museum at Sigri (22530.54434) and nated by forests and olive gro- departures from Piraeus to Mytilene fully equipped rooms and suites; Il excellent choice of appetizers and the info center in Mytilene ves, also hosts several unique (Piraeus Port Authority 210.451.1311, iotropio I & II (41629), deluxe rooms ouzo; Kalderimi (2 Thasou, in the mar (22510.47033); Mytilene Castle, found natural habitats, making Lesvos Mytilene 22540 28647). From June 3, and apartments on the coastal road to ket area), simple but fresh seafood, ed in the 5th century, is one of the a major birdwatching destina- Blue Star Ferries will be running a the airport; Pyrgos Mytilinis (25069), very busy at lunchtime. In Molyvos: most expansive in the Mediterranean; tion. weekly service from Thessaloniki to 12 deluxe rooms in French Imperial Vafeios (22530.71752), excellent tradi the two archaeological museums, old The petrified forest of Sigri of- Sigri, departing at 8 p.m. on Fridays, style. In Molyvos: Delfinia Hotel & tional cuisine in a lovely building with and new; Polichnitos hot springs; arriving at 5.30 a.m. and then going on Bungalows (22530.71502), 70s style in garden and town views. In Kalloni: Theophilos Museum in Varia; the Nat fers an impressive insight into to call at Chios, Samos, Kos and a large estate with superb sea views; Mimis, one of Lesvos’s bestknown ural History Museum at Vrisa; swim at the island’s geological history. Rhodes. Area phone code: 22510; Panselinos (22530.71905), spacious s tavernas. In Perama: Balouhanas Aghios Ermogenis, by the road to the But nothing is more strongly tourist police: 22776; tourism office: tudios and apartments with lush gar (51948), family run taverna, fish and airport; Aghios Fokas offers the best associated with Lesvos than 42511; hospital: 43777. dens on Eftalou beach. classic Greek dishes. sunsets. ouzo, the national spirit, around