The Greek Community of Australia has marked the holy day of the Dormition of the Theotokos in churches around the country.
Church services throughout the week culminated today in a special Eucharist, whereby hundreds of Greek Australians break their fast.
The Dormition of the Mother of God (Greek: Κοίμησις της Θεοτόκου), commemorates the “falling asleep” or death of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her resurrection before being taken up into heaven.
It is celebrated on August 15 and is one of the most important religious and cultural events throughout Greece and the Hellenic diaspora.
The holy day also marks the name day for people named Panagiotis, Panagiota, Panos, Maria, Mario, Despina and Katholiki.
The Pontian Association of Melbourne is hosting a festival on Sunday to mark the occasion, with dancing groups and lots of food to entertain the crowd.
The event begins at 12pm at the Pontian Association, 540 Sydney Road, Brunswick.
Entry is free.