The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) will host its annual Blessing of the Waters this Sunday at Henley Beach in Adelaide combining religious tradition with cultural festivities and is expected to draw hundreds of attendees.
The ceremony is set to begin at 12pm, as clergy, parishioners, and guests process along the Henley Beach jetty before participants dive into the sea to retrieve the Holy Cross.
“This time-honoured tradition not only enriches the Greek community but also contributes significantly to the vibrant multicultural tapestry of our great state,” said South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas in a message to GOCSA. He praised the event for exemplifying the Greek community’s renowned hospitality and its tradition of filoxenia (hospitality).
Following the religious ceremony, the Henley Beach Greek Festival will unfold, featuring a blend of Greek and multicultural performances.
“Henley Beach Greek Festival, incorporating the Blessing of the Waters, is an annual event that all South Australians can look forward to. It’s not only a wonderful opportunity for our Greek community to showcase its culture and traditions, but it’s also a chance for all South Australians to celebrate the state’s cultural diversity and promote cultural understanding,” GOCSA Cultural Committee Chair Hellas Lucas added.
Highlights include:
-Traditional Greek dances by the GOCSA Dance Academy and the Pontian Brotherhood of SA.
-A special showcase of Ukrainian culture by dancers from Adelaide’s SLAVA Ukrainian Cultural Centre.
-Live music from local band Kerasma Live.
-Traditional food and desserts, including the much-loved loukoumades (Greek honey puffs).
More photos below:
