The “Φilotimo” Festival, dedicated to the youth of the Archdiocesan District of Melbourne, concluded with remarkable success and unexpected participation.
Organised in honour of the 100th anniversary of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia, the event provided a platform for youth interaction and engagement.
Archbishop Makarios of Australia played a significant role in the festival, personally greeting attendees upon arrival, listening to the youth, and delivering paternal messages during the liturgy.
The three-day event began with an Agiasmos Service at the Holy Monastery of Panagia Kamariani, Red Hill, on January 26.
The Archbishop’s surprise visit on Saturday brought joy and meaningful interactions between the youth and their Shepherd.
On Sunday, the Divine Liturgy, presided over by Archbishop Makarios, featured a sermon encouraging young people to welcome Christ into their hearts, akin to the Gospel passage of Zacchaeus.
A parade of Sunday School children followed, receiving icons as souvenirs, with the Archbishop emphasising the importance of a Christ-centered life.
Expressing gratitude to Bishop Kyriakos of Sozopolis for organising the festival, Archbishop Makarios assured the youth that their desire to establish this celebration as an institution would be fulfilled. “My Children, do not worry. Next year we will be here again,” he concluded, bidding farewell to the youth of Melbourne.
