The Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in New South Wales, has been listed on the State Heritage Register.
The announcement, which coincides with Greek Orthodox Easter and National Heritage Week, was made at the end of the Easter Service last Sunday by His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, alongside NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell.
“I am delighted to make this announcement as it is important that the State Heritage Register reflects the diversity of cultures that continue to contribute so much to the making of NSW,” stated Mr O’Farrell.
“This Cathedral began life in 1848 as an Anglican Church and following World War II and the shift in the demographic of the region, it changed hands to the Greek Orthodox Church.
“Since then it has become the official seat of Greek Orthodoxy in Australia and a focal point for the migrant community where Greek customs, traditions and language can be shared.
“While the architecture is markedly different to the traditional style that normally denotes Greek Orthodox churches, the combination of the Byzantine iconography inside and the sandstone outside is a fitting symbol of the migrant experience.”
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia has welcomed the listing, saying it’s a powerful gesture to the congregation.
“It is the ‘heart’ of the church in Australia and this listing is broader recognition of the journey of the Greek Orthodox community as a whole,” His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos said.
