He Came Down from Heaven for Our Salvation Christmas is the celebration of the Incarnation of God: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). But why did God become human? Many people say that the only reason Christ was born was to save us from our flawed human nature. We know that Adam and Eve became subject to pain, suffering and physical death through their disobedience against God. From that moment, it seems that sin - against one’s own self, against others, and against God - became a basic human trait. Without being aware, we slip [...]

Let the Children Come to Me Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14) The love that Jesus shows for children is profound. The disciples were dismissive of the parents who sought Jesus’ blessing for their children. They did not want the Master disturbed by little children as he was going about His business of teaching adults. They thought He was too important for them. Yet Jesus turned everything on its head, teaching the disciples and us to be lowly, and to trample upon [...]

The Cross of the Faithful The cross is the one symbol that is instantly identifiable as being truly Christian. In the two millennia since Christ was crucified, the sign of the cross has proliferated all over the world marking things sacred. From apostolic times it was seen as a mystery and incorporated into daily life. Christ tells us to take up our cross daily and follow Him (Luke 14:27), teaching us to draw power from His suffering and His passion and carry on patiently, knowing that the crucifixion always leads to the resurrection. Furthermore, St. Cyril of Jerusalem writing in [...]

On the 25th March 2019 as is known, the former Archbishop of Australia, Stylianos slept in the Lord. The whole body of the Greek Orthodox Church of Australia mourned the passing of its Shepherd. For a short while, we all felt like we were lost, somewhat like orphans. The question naturally and inevitably came to our lips: Who would come now? Who would take the rudder? Who would guide the Church? Who would sanctify our collective pain? The prayers of all the faithful were united. They became “a sweet-smelling spiritual fragrance.” And the Lord accepted those prayers and responded. Through [...]

Death and Resurrection You asked, “where is he”, You who knows all, You shed a tear for me O Saviour, as human by nature and You raised me from the dead by Your command. (Compline Hymn, Saturday of the Raising of Lazarus.) All of us will or already have come into close contact with death through the passing away of a loved one or a dear friend. Our faith in God may be tested as the perceived injustice and indignity of death shocks us. However, if we truly believe in what we chant on Easter Sunday, “Christ is risen from [...]