Numerous community dignitaries attended a luncheon last week that was held to raise funds for renovations to the Annunciation of Our Lady, also known as Evangelismos church, which was held at Axion Esti in Northcote.

Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta blessed the event and welcomed guests who included the president of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), Bill Papastergiadis, Treasurer Dr Marinis Pirpiris and General Secretary Nikos Koukouvitakis as well as Dimitris Tsilikis who represented the Greek Consulate-General in Melbourne. Mr Tsilikis read out to the audience a message from Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the President of the Hellenic Republic.

Attending the fundraising lunch for renovations to the The Annunciation of our Lady were Bishop Evmenios of Kerasounta, Dimitris Tsilikis who represented the Greek Consulate-General in Melbourne, Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) president Bill Papastergiadis, Treasurer Dr Marinis Pirpiris and General Secretary Nikos Koukouvitakis. Photo: Supplied

Mr Papastergiadis highlighted the celebration of Greek Independence Day on 25 March and pointed out the cooperation between the Archdiocese of Australia and the GCM. He emphasised the concept of freedom of nations and compared the current struggles in the Ukraine with those of the heroes of Greek independence in 1821.
Master of ceremonies Dean Kalimniou said the Annunciation of Our Lady was the oldest and most historic Greek Orthodox church in Melbourne and said it was a diamond in the crown of the community.

At the end of the luncheon Fr Antonios Vanikiotis thanked everyone who attended the event.