Archdiocesan District of Perth

Message From His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Kyaneon – Archiepiscopal Vicar of Perth

Dear Brothers and Sisters

As informed by of our Spiritual Father, Archbishop Makarios of Australia, all the Greek Orthodox Churches of our Holy Archdiocese will be effectively closed to parishioners from today until further notice.

Archbishop Makarios, in collaboration with all His assistant bishops and by taking such action, is showing His paternal love towards His flock. His Eminence wishes to protect all parishioners of our Archdiocese from the Coronavirus by instructing them to stay home as opposed to gathering in one place (the church building) which raises the risk of spreading the virus.

PLEASE NOTE that the celebration of the Holy Eucharist will not cease to take place on Sundays and on the Feast Day of the Annunciation in our churches. We are merely avoiding people to gather in the church building until this epidemic is over.

All Priests will continue to conduct the various Lenten Services in front of the Holy Altar Table for all of mankind alone without parishioners being physically present. We ask everyone to continue praying at home by reciting the Great Compline and the Salutation Services to the Theotokos as well as the Jesus Prayer (Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us).

We ask that God gives us all PATIENCE and FAITH to be able to pull through this time of Hardship.

The Church, in all her wisdom, knows how to react to such epidemics. For this reason I ask that we all show humility and listen to the Church represented through the voice of our local shepherd (our Archbishop).

Please share this information especially with those you may know that do not have access to Social Media.

Sacraments and Funerals will take place only in the presence of Immediate Family.

Should you wish to reschedule a forthcoming Memorial Service, Baptism or Wedding for a later date then please contact your parish priest.

It is of vital importance for the elderly, and those vulnerable (Diabetes, Respiratory Conditions, and the like) to stay home and exercise the highest degree of caution.

No instructions have yet been issued in relation to Holy Week and Easter at this time. As they become available, they will be shared. We will wait to be guided by our Archbishop regarding this matter.

For the time being we must remain calm having fixed our eyes on the crucified Christ Who suffered, died, was buried and resurrected on the Third Day for the salvation of the entire Human Race.

God bless you all

Bishop Elpidios of Kyaneon