Last week the Parish of St Andrew in Noarlunga celebrated the consecration of its rebuilt church, which stands as a symbol of renewal following the fire that destroyed the place of worship 18 months ago.
On Saturday, September 13, parishioners gathered at Christies Downs, to witness the sacred rites officiated by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia. He was joined by His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide and other clergy, dignitaries, and faithful from the local and wider Orthodox community.
The day began early with Matins at 7am with a consecration service, followed by the Divine Liturgy. Unlike a blessing, the consecration of a church is a profound event in the Orthodox tradition — it is the baptism of the building itself, marking it as a permanent house of God.
A central moment in the service was the placement of holy relics into the altar table, echoing the early Christian practice of celebrating the Eucharist over the tombs of martyrs. The altar was then washed with water, wine, and holy chrism, clothed in coverings, and anointed, symbolising the sanctification of the entire space through the presence of the Holy Spirit.
After 18 months of rebuilding following the fire, the church has been restored not as a vibrant spiritual home. The atmosphere was one of solemn worship interwoven with joy and thanksgiving.
Preparation included parishioners engaged in prayer, fasting, confession, and Holy Communion to spiritually ready themselves, recognising that the consecration was a renewal not just of bricks and mortar, but of hearts and community.
Careful attention was paid to every detail — from the cleaning and beautification of the church to the preparation of sacred vessels and the rehearsal of lengthy hymns by choirs. Volunteers ensured that hospitality was extended graciously to all clergy and guests attending the event.
Archbishop Makarios, presided over the consecration, and emphasised the meaning behind the ceremony.
“The most important is not the walls, the bricks or the roofs. I do not care for them. I care for the people of the parish.”
He reminded the congregation that the consecration took place on the same date — September 13 — as the consecration of the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem, linking St Andrew’s to one of Christianity’s holiest traditions. The day concluded with a luncheon at St Basil’s Homes Aegean Village.
The church now stands as a beacon of faith for parishioners and a place where all generations go to seek pray. As the parish priest said, “It is here that the endless spiritual journey begins”.
