The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia hosted its own celebrations in Adelaide on Sunday 25 March to commemorate Greek Independence Day.
Well-attended by Hellenes from across Adelaide, the day started with the Great Doxology at the church of Archangels Michael and Gabriel.
To honour the memory of the heroes of the 1821 Revolution to follow a moving short memorial service was held in the church’s courtyard.
President of the Community Bill Gonis OAM was pleased with the turn out. In an address to those gathered, he said he was proud that the community was holding on tight to its traditions for almost 90 years.
“As President, I am delighted that the Greek Orthodox Community of SA has been able to maintain the tradition of Greek Independence Day through its school’s program as well as through the teachings of Greek culture and history,” he said.
Among the official guests in attendance were Terry Stephens on behalf of the Premier of SA Steven Marshall, Minister for Child Protection Rachel Sanderson, Member for Croydon Peter Malinauskas representing the Labor Party, Frank Pangallo representing SA Best Party, Peter Ppiros on behalf of SAMEAC Chair Grace Portolesi, Secretary of the Cyprus Community of SA Loukas Minas, and Anna Amirkhanyan on behalf of the Armenian Community of SA, along with representatives of various local associations.
The clergy and guests paid their respects to the fallen with wreaths laid in honour of those who fought for Greece’s freedom against the Ottoman Empire, and also observed a one-minute silence.
Adding to the sense of national pride were the Greek flags and students donning traditional costumes of the era, who later made presentations, recited poetry and songs at the St Mary’s College function hall.
