OCTOBER 2017 DISCIPLINE IN THE HOME ORTHODOX AND …greekorthodox.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/October-2017.pdf · (9/10), where Bishop Seraphim conducted an Agiasmos service.

OCTOBER 2017 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected]

THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN

VEMADISCIPLINE IN THE HOME

The oldestcirculating

Greeknewspaper

outsideGreece

Parnassos villagesEasily accessible from Athens, this group of

small communities offers opportunities for hik-ing or just sitting back and admiring nature.

PAGE 16/32

US ambassador: Greecea pillar of stability

US ambassador to Athens, Geoffrey R. Pyatt,believes that Greece is a pillar of stability in itsregion ans states that Washington cooperatesclosely in advancing freedom and security inthe Balkans, the Eastern Mediterranean andthe broader region.

More than 40 teachers congregated at StNicholas Church, Marrickville (NSW), on Mon-day October 9. The occasion was the AdvancedCourse for Scripture Teachers in New SouthWales.

PAGE 5/21

ORTHODOX AND HETERODOX (F’)OUR ARCHBISHOP’S VIEW

PAGE 7/23

PAGE 3/19

Science and Religioncome to St Nicholas

PAGE 6/22

FULL REPORT ON PAGE 12/28

AT ST NICHOLAS CHURCH, MARRICKVILLE (NSW)

Greek Orthodox church lost in 9/11rises again at ground zero

PRAYER SERVICEFOR NATIONALPOSTAL VOTE

On Sunday 17th September, more than 1,300 people gathered together for a Paraclesis service

to the Theotokos as the Protector of Marriage and pray for the national postal vote

The Greek Australian VEMATO BHMA2/18 OCTOBER 2017

St John’s Community Care recently hosted the 10thNational Conference of Greek Welfare Centres inCairns. The conference commenced on October 8thwith a Divine Liturgy conducted by His Grace BishopSeraphim, representing His Eminence ArchbishopStylianos. The service was followed by a luncheon pro-vided by the local Philoptochos ladies and volunteers.

The conference theme was ‘The Environment of Op-portunity’ and aimed to look at the current changes inthe welfare sector and determine the opportunitiesthey present, rather than focusing on the challengesthey cause.

Conference deliberations started on Monday morning(9/10), where Bishop Seraphim conducted an Agiasmosservice. Delegates from across the country were thenwelcomed to the region by Cairns Regional CouncilDeputy Mayor, Cr. Terry James.

Representatives from Welfare and Aged Care centreswere in attendance, with organisations from South Aus-tralia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia, NewSouth Wales and Queensland all providing reports ontheir programs and innovative projects during the twodays of the conference.

St John’s then premiered their new promotionalvideo, recently commissioned, which showcases theservices they provide across Queensland, featuringclients and Care Workers telling their stories and expe-riences.

Peak aged care body LASA provided speakers, TroySpiers and Sharyn McIlwain, principle advisors withinLASA, who discussed the recently released Tune reviewand the implications it may have on servicing in the sec-tor. Diversicare Advisory Service discussed supportingelderly clients from CALD backgrounds and a St John’sCommunity Care client living in Supported Accommoda-tion described what care is like from a client perspec-tive. Olive Tau-Davis, a well-known local community ad-vocate spoke about migration and the experience thatpeople from many cultures have when they come toAustralia, and the opportunities and challenges theyface.

The conference program featured speakers from anumber of government agencies who discussed topicsincluding the National Disability Insurance Scheme(NDIS), Aged Care reform and compliance from both afinancial and program perspective. The Australian AgedCare Quality Agency was represented by the Qld Assis-

tant Director, Susan Turner, who co-presented with Ca-rina Wilson, Director of Qld Aged Care Regulation. ArnaBrosnan, Regional Executive Director of the QueenslandDepartment of Communities, Child Safety and DisabilityServices and Des Lee, Northern Queensland RegionalManager of NDIA both discussed the NDIS and the op-portunities it presented to both clients and services.

Conference sponsors BDO and NAB provided thoseassembled with advice and regarding their ability to as-sist organisations navigate regulatory compliance andmake the most of opportunities.

Tom Hogbin, Senior Manager from BDO presented acase study, outlining efficiencies and benefits from re-structuring and redefining financial systems; whilst An-na Lazanyi, an Associate Director with NAB outlined thebenefits of banking with NAB who are able to tailorbanking to the needs of those under the auspice of theGreek Orthodox Archdiocese.

During the conference delegates were treated to per-formances by the internationally renowned TjapukaiAboriginal dancers and the ARC Beats drumming troupefeaturing drummers and dancers from a local disabilityservice provider.

Day two offered delegates the chance to showcasetheir own seized opportunities. GWC Community Serv-ices NSW presented a moving project which told thestories of elderly Greek clients who had migrated toAustralia; St John’s presented their Mobile Time and At-tendance – a phone based app used to keep clientrecords up to date and to maintain Care Worker safety;and Greek Welfare South Australia described their proj-ect which supports clients to understand their rightswhen dealing with government agencies.

The final session of the conference focused on the en-vironment of opportunity and how organisations andactivities under the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese ofAustralia could work more collaboratively for commonoutcomes. The workshops developed a number of ideaswhich will be further discussed in meetings to takeplace in the coming months.

The conference was a great chance for networkingand has seen a number of small and large opportunitiesfor sharing and collaboration discussed. The 11th con-ference will be held in 2019, and all are looking forwardto seeing how opportunities have been taken forwardand used to better the lives of our clients and those inour communities.

10th National Greek Welfare Conference

The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/19OCTOBER 2017

A Greek Orthodox church taking shape next to theWorld Trade Center memorial plaza will glow at nightlike a marble beacon when it opens sometime nextyear. It also will mark another step in the long rebuild-ing of New York’s ground zero.

The St Nicholas National Shrine, designed by renow-ned architect Santiago Calatrava, will replace a tinychurch that was crushed by the trade center’s southtower on September 11, 2001. The new church will giveGreek Orthodox believers a place to worship while alsowelcoming visitors of any faith who want to reflect onthe lives lost in the terrorist attacks.

“It is such a significant church because of what hap-pened here,” said Jerry Dimitriou, executive director ofthe Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, whichoversees 540 parishes and approximately 1.5 millionGreek Orthodox faithful across the United States. Hesaid people may want to stop and pray after they’vebeen to the National September 11 Memorial and Mu-seum, a few paces away. “We will give them a place tocome and sit, and sit inside of a church,” Dimitriou said.

The large crowd that assembled recently for a cere-mony on the 16th anniversary of the terror attacks wasable to see the unfinished church, now a raw-lookingstructure covered in concrete and plywood.

It is one of a handful of unfinished pieces of the re-construction of the huge trade center site, which is nowa combination of green trees, polished stone and glassytowers after being known for years as a dusty, gray con-struction zone.

Two of four planned office towers are now open. Athird is set to open in spring 2018 with Spotify as an an-chor tenant. A fourth office tower and a performing artscenter are yet to be built.

The church, tucked in a park on the southern edge ofthe site, is Calatrava’s second World Trade Center com-mission.

His bird-shaped train hall, called the Oculus, opened

in March 2016 and is now a draw for selfie-takingtourists, though some critics grouse that the $4 billionprice tag was high for a structure that seems more mallthan train station.

The estimated cost for St Nicholas is $50 million. Un-like the transit hub, built largely with federal trans-portation dollars, the church is being funded throughdonations from disparate sources including the Greekgovernment, Greek Orthodox church members aroundthe world and, Dimitriou said, the Roman Catholic Arch-diocese of Boston and the Italian city of Bari, whose pa-tron saint is St Nicholas.

The church they are building hardly resembles otherCalatrava projects such as the Oculus or the MilwaukeeArt Museum with their distinctive ribbed wings.

Rather, the new St. Nicholas was inspired by twoByzantine shrines in Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia and theChurch of the Holy Savior in Chora. Like those struc-tures built in the fifth and sixth centuries, St Nicholas

will feature a central dome flanked by towers.The building will be sheathed in marble from quarries

north of Athens – the same vein of marble that wasused to build the Parthenon. Calatrava said he wasthrilled to receive permission from the Greek govern-ment to use the marble because, “for me Hagia Sophiais the Parthenon of Orthodoxy.”

Calatrava said his building will complement the me-morial pools directly to the north. “On one side youhave water and memory, and on the other side, in thechurch, you have the idea of the light of the candle andthe flame and the sense of hope,“ he said. “What I’mtrying to do as an architect is give a sense of hope.”

The original St Nicholas was far more modest. The 35-foot-tall (11-meter-tall) building housed a tavern whenGreek immigrants bought it in 1919 to use as a church.

The church stayed put when the trade center’s mon-umental twin towers were built in the 1970s.

A temporary icon of Christ gazes down at the sanctu-ary under construction now. It will be replaced by a per-manent icon before the sanctuary starts hosting Ortho-dox services. Meanwhile, work has started on second-floor meditation and reflection spaces that will be opento all.

A spherical bronze sculpture that stood between thetwin towers before September 11, 2001 returned to aspot next to the church just recently. Artist FritzKoenig’s sphere, seen by many as a symbol of resilience,was placed in a small park just west of St Nicholas.

Pavlakos said the new church’s welcoming stancehonors the legacy of the old St Nicholas, where area of-fice workers often stopped to light a candle during theirlunch hours.

“It’s not only for Greek people, it’s a place for every-body,” she said. “And that’s what we stood for before,so this is a continuation.”

[AP]

Washington, Ankara and the Tsipras visitBy Nikos Konstandaras - Kathimerini, Athens

Turkey has always held a strong card in its relationswith the United States over recent decades – its inde-pendent stance in foreign affairs is its way of telling al-lies that it is fully aware of its strategic and militarystrength.

Ankara also does not shrink from showing that itcould find friends elsewhere, as in its current flirtationwith Russia. Athens, on the other hand, always sees aworsening in relations between Washington andAnkara as strengthening its own bond with the super-power. The United States always imposed a measureof balance in its relations with Greece and Turkey.This time could be different.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Turkey is a very differentcountry from what it was a couple of years ago. TheTurkish president has repeatedly shown that he is agambler, ready to raise the stakes. But he has neverfaced greater dangers than today, nor had a weakerhand. His country is rife with divisions and the Kurdson the borders are growing stronger. And so, Erdogandoes what he always does when he is in difficulty – heraises the stakes. In the dispute with the UnitedStates which has led to both countries suspendingvisas for each other’s nationals, the Turkish leaderyesterday raised tensions even further. “We are not atribal state,” he declared.

“We are the state of the Republic of Turkey and youwill accept it. If you don’t, then sorry but we do notneed you.” According to Hurriyet Daily News, hecharged that while the US hesitated to sell arms toTurkey it provides “arms to the terrorist organizationfor free,” referring to US-allied Kurdish forces fighting

the Islamic State in Syria.The recent withdrawal of German forces from the

Incirlik base shows that Turkey is in fighting mood.Perhaps, though, Erdogan is putting too much store inhis good chemistry with Donald Trump – the onlyWestern leader to congratulate him on his (narrow)win in the referendum that will change Turkey’s con-stitution. This may be why he is going to extremes,thinking that, like him, Trump is free to lead his coun-try in the wrong direction without anyone stoppinghim.

Sooner or later Erdogan will realize his mistake.Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras will visit the UnitedStates this week. He should keep in mind that the ten-sion between Washington and Ankara is not a victoryfor Athens.

Greece must always show independently that it hasright on its side, it must inspire confidence that it is acredible partner in a difficult neighborhood. The factthat Erdogan has gone off the rails does not meanthat Turkey will not turn toward the United Statesagain.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan gives a speech during his meeting with provincial governors at the PresidentialPalace in Ankara.

Greek Orthodox church lost on 9/11 rises again at ground zero

TO BHMA4/20 OCTOBER 2017

A different Sunday

At 2.15pm on Sunday 17th September, I travelled toSt Nicholas church in Marrickville for a Paraclesisservice to the Theotokos as the Protector of Mar-riage.

This was an historic occasion that must not go un-reported.

We arrived a little early and managed to find one ofthe few empty seats. We were very fortunate as themassive church filled quickly and I imagine that thecourtyard outside was also filled. I guess there wouldhave been at least 1500-2000 in the crowd.

There were many priests in attendance, so many in-deed that I could not count them.

Together with the chanters they made their way tothe narthex. The congregations stood in solemn rev-erence as the icon of the Panagia, held by the twoArchimandrites made its way from the solea to the

entrance of the church. His Grace, Bishop Iakovos entered and was adorned

with his episcopal mantle. His gradual and measuredentrance was reminiscent to me of some emperor. Allthe eyes of the congregation were upon him but Inoted that his own eyes were cast downward so asnot to catch anyone’s attention or maybe not to dis-turb his prayer. He entered slowly -ever so slowly –and the congregation sensed that something uniquewas about to take place.

The bishop was preceded by the icon, the chantersand the clergy. It was truly majestic – maybe likesomething that might one see at a coronation.

The icon of the Theotokos was placed on the cathe-dra or episcopal throne and was visible to all through-out the church. It dominated our gaze. This icon hadbeen specially produced on Mt Athos for the protec-tion of marriage in Australia. The bishop stood at itsside.

The Paraclesis commenced. It was composed espe-cially by the Abbess Isidora of the Monastery of Agio-theitesis.

I must say that it comprised some beautiful hymnsthat led one’s thoughts away to another dimension.The congregation accompanied the chanters whonumbered more than 30.

Some of the verses in the Paraclesis applied to Aus-tralia and most to the Panagia as our protector ofmarriage. Here are three examples:

Save the people of Australia, Bride of GodStruggling with the foolishnessand deceit of those holding power.

Rejoice Australia, take courage and declareAnd store your hopes with great faithIn the Virgin Bride of God, Protector of Marriage

The Australian people have you as a refugeAnd gain your help in their sorrow at this hour of need and persecution,Daughter and Bride of God.

There are other verses but my ability to translatethem is very limited. I cannot do justice to their beau-ty.

Nevertheless, I must add to you in confidence thatwhenever I heard the word Australiva my eyesswelled with tears and emotion for this country that Ilove.

I cried for what we are doing to its people and howwe have lost our way badly. Nowadays what wasmorally wrong is now considered acceptable. Wehave no fear of God.

Many publicity campaigns will be waged both forand against the issue of the day but this Paraclesiswas the ultimate weapon. No matter what the out-come – we have won. We shall never be defeatedwith the Theotokos at our side.

His Grace expressed the sentiments of love, respectand tolerance within the Creed of our Holy OrthodoxChurch. He bowed and venerated the icon so manytimes that I thought he had forgotten to stop his pros-trations.

My eyes have witnessed many developments in thehistory of our church in Sydney from the 1950s to thepresent time. There have been struggles, demonstra-tions, celebrations, foundations of new parishes or in-stitutions but this service tops them all. It represent-ed the Church as triumphant but beseeching as it hasin the past the Panagia in a time of need.

The Paraclesis embodied the spirit of Orthodoxy –the Orthodox ethos. The abiding love for God and ourprayers to the Panagia to intercede on our behalf.The silence and solemnity prevailed – a young mannext to me uttered the psalm and others nearbychanted the newly composed hymns. One family onevoice and one spirit.

Gradually the clergy followed by the monks andthen the nuns from our monasteries venerated thisnow famous icon and then one by one for almost twoor more hours the congregation showed their love forthe Panagia, their faith in the Church and their sup-port for its opposition to what is morally wrong.

It is only with faith and love that Christianity con-quered the world. This Tradition is being continued inthe diaspora.

This Sunday was a sight to behold.

Letterfrom

Maroubra

The Greek Australian VEMA

[email protected]

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Members of the Greek Presidential Guard present arms on the AcropolisHill earlier this month during a ceremony marking the 73rd anniversary ofthe liberation of Athens from Nazi occupation during World War Two. Incomments in front of the Parthenon, Interior Minister Panos Skourletis saidthat the ceremony was being held to “safeguard the memory of a great peo-ple who not only endured three-and-a-half years of painful occupation butemerged stronger and perhaps more innocent despite the hardship of thetimes.”

[AP]

Athens marks 73rd anniversary of liberation from Nazis

TO BHMA 5/21OCTOBER 2017 The Greek Australian VEMA

Our Primate’s ViewORTHODOX AND HETERODOX

(F)Thus, while we have the highest moral obligation to

transmit the true faith of the early undivided Church to allthose who have been removed from it as a result ofschisms and heresies, as well as to those who have notcome to know it, we often become ridiculous in the eyes ofothers, when we boast of being “depositaries” but in reali-ty are pitifully poor as fallen lords. But with this inconsis-tency and unworthiness of ours, compared to thesonorous titles of our noble origin, we are not simply un-worthy of credit and ineffectual in transmitting to others“...some spiritual benefit” (I Cor. 9 : 11). By being ridiculedbefore them we literally provoke them to commit a dualcrime: first, by ridiculing us, the Orthodox, and then has-tening to every kind of proselytism among our faithful —especially during the last one hundred years when wholegroups of Orthodox peoples emigrated to the “West” andlived as struggling minorities amidst established and dom-inant communities of heterodox Christians. Secondly, byextending this ridicule to the respected and sacred treas-ure of Christian Tradition which we purport to bear, andthus we cause the heterodox to be even further removedfrom the unadulterated sources of ancient Christianity.

We will close this deplorable survey of our “internal” (!)problems by indicating two further obvious phenomena ofdubious Orthodoxy, which become the more dangerousprecisely when their provocative contrast with the tradi-tional Orthodox ethos does not appear to have become asyet widely known. We refer to the manner in which GreekOrthodox theology is taught today and to the way in whichthe “evaluation”of the pastoral work of many of our con-temporary Bishops is made. As for the former, we woulddraw attention to the conviction of our Church that the“threefold office” of the Lord, which is expressed in “I amthe way, and the truth and the life” (John 14 : 6) and istransmitted to the Bishop through the ordination, is indi-visible. This means that all three offices (Royal - Prophetic- Priestly) comprise an inseparable unity. In other words,the Bishop cannot sanctify and shepherd, his flock apartfrom teaching them. Similarly, he cannot teach authenti-cally, apart from sanctifying and acting as a shepherd. Be-cause the teaching of the Church, namely Theology (andnot merely the practical sermon!) is nourished directlyfrom the sacrificial altar and the continual communionwith the multitude of the faithful, for whom the Bishop isthe source and the pivot. In any case, this seems to havebeen the deeper theological reason for which the Quin-sext Synod prohibited lay persons from preaching. Ofcourse this does not mean that laypersons do not have“gifts” or “wisdom”, with which the theology of the Churchis irrigated from the beginning. On the contrary, layper-sons as well as monks in particular have made their note-worthy and memorable theological contribution through-out the centuries to the Church; and it would constitute in-gratitude, insolence and blasphemy to exclude them fromthis “concelebration” of all ranks within the Church, whichis theology. Yet, it would equally constitute ingratitude, in-solence and blasphemy to make the official theology of theChurch a professional branch at the University, renderingit the monopoly of laypersons. The fact that the Synodcomes afterwards - especially in controversial matters andat critical moments - to offer its positive or negative ver-dict by means of an occasional document for a whole con-crete work of the Theological Schools, this does not meanthat it has thus dispensed with its Episcopal duty in its pri-mary task of theology, or with the obligation of its Clergy ingeneral with reference to its teaching ministry. It is indeedworthy of admiration and wonder that when the hetero-dox - Protestant or Papist without distinction - call one a“theologian” surely out of respect for the threefold officeof Christ, they invariably mean a “Clergyman”, as if the two

words were synonyms. In their Theological Schools, evenin State Universities, their zeal is rarely exhausted only inteaching theology, without at the same time having theburning desire to be ordained. One observes almost thesame sensitivity in relation to the threefold office of Christeven in the other Orthodox peoples, who by and large liveunder totalitarian regimes, where theology would moreprobably become “popularised” and administered by theGovernment. But under our prevailing situation whetherone’s theology agrees with the teaching and the authenticspirit of the Church unfortunately depends on the person-al piety and ambition of each lay theologian. Because ac-cording to the developments of past years, even personsofficially declared as atheists, as the Security Council ofGreece recently decided have the right both to teach andbe taught theology at a Theological School administeredby State Government.

As for the more and more widely recently circulating cu-rious habit of some of our Bishops of composing at regularintervals volumes of their “proceedings”, and of dissemi-nating them in all directions, we should say that they be-tray, at the least the purely, secular conscience and men-tality of a bureaucrat, which is entirely irrelevant to theOrthodox ethos and spirit. Nowhere in our tradition isthere a Bishop who had the ambition “to preach his min-istry” in such a manner. For in the case of good works theevangelical command “let thy left hand not know what thyright hand does” (mat. 6 : 3) is valid more for the Bishopthan for the rest of the faithful.

Then, what should one say of those theatrical distribu-tions of “dowry bank books for poor girls”, an act that notonly does not honour the giver as a god-loving worker, butexposes him to greater dishonour than the humiliation ofthe receiver! Again, are not the photographic advertise-ments of Bishops at the moment of giving blood any lesscontrary to the Orthodox ethos, if not lacking altogether asense of dignity; such photographic advertisements causeindigration instead of sympathy, at the sight of an Ortho-dox Bishop lying down “full-length” and triumphantlyboasting about an act of mere solidarity that is performedin all parts of the earth even by atheists and without anyself-advertisement. Unfortunately, the ostentation of un-restrained activism in works of purely “substituted activi-ty” knows no limits under the guilty acquiescence of all.Lately we have had the case of a very old Bishop, whoboasts of his ascetical life and total absence of 24 selfish-ness - in the name of which virtues he dumbfounds all - butwho considered it god-pleasing to assign to one of his spir-itual children the writing of a book in the form of edifyingnovel, in which he described his achievements at the timeof the German occupation. Then the hero of the book him-self sent it, with exemplary “modesty” as the work of athird person, to a multitude of people; and as if this self-advertising was not sufficient, he published the customarypraises of the replies he received in all the publications ofhis Diocese “to the glory of God”.

How far such a degree of public exposure enables us tobecome an example for emulation by the heterodox Chris-tians is for our readers to judge. Of course, even the het-erodox Shepherds and Teachers, together with their faith-ful, have a multitude of vulnerable points and very oftencompel the weak towards dissension or atheism, but atleast they display a basic degree of “social decency”. And inany case, the sense of vigilance and thirst for salvation fre-quently becomes more acute for one who has no shelterthan for one who is benumbed by the pharisaic tactics ofan ostrich-like certainty and security.

Source: “Voice of Orthodoxy”,March 1987 (No. 87)

By ARCHBISHOPSTYLIANOSOF AUSTRALIA


Monday 9th October was a warm Spring day in Syd-ney and more than 40 teachers congregated at StNicholas Church, Marrickville (NSW).

The occasion was the Advanced Course for ScriptureTeachers in New South Wales.

The day began with the morning prayers in the beau-tiful and serene atmosphere of the church. Fr Christo-doulos officiated and Fr Nicholas chanted, while teach-ers accompanied some of the prayers.

A memorial photo was taken at the steps to the soleaof the church then the course began in earnest. Mrs An-na Dokos provided a thought-provoking presentationthat every parent should hear. It was on applying par-enting skills in everyday life. It was agreed that someversion of this informative talk should be given at everyparish.

Many teachers had requested some guidance on thetopic of science and religion. Prof Socrates Dokos out-lined the close links between Orthodox Faith and sci-ence. He explained how science gives knowledge of thecreated and faith gives knowledge of the uncreated.

Prof Dokos outlined how the universe it tailor-madefor human survival. Even a slight variation in one physi-cal factor would mean that life could not exist. He out-

lined the Big Bang Theory and provided links with theaccount in Genesis when God said, “let there be light”.

Evolution was also mentioned. Parallels with this

process were evident in the Scriptures but Prof Dokoscautioned that the Bible was not intended as a sciencetextbook. It was written for a different audience andwith a different purpose.

It was a great honour to be present to hear such illu-minating talks. This was a rare privilege.

The course closed with two presentations – MrGeorge Moscos former Head Teacher at Asquith Boys’High School provided a short summary of the Code ofConduct for our teachers. Mr Moscos drew upon his ex-perience to explain some basic ways of handling diffi-cult situations. As visitors to State Schools, all teachersare expected to follow guidelines on child protectionand safety. This presentation is part of the compulsorytraining that has to be completed each year.

Words of encouragement and inspiration on the roleof the Scripture Teacher were provided by Rev FrChristodoulos. He stressed the importance of SpecialReligious Education and cited many examples from hisparish experiences. He also outlined the spiritual devel-opment of the teacher as an example to children andtheir parents.

This was a fitting conclusion to a spiritually rewardingencounter. Such courses reinforce the identity of ourteachers. They show that the Church is concerned fortheir welfare and development as qualified teachers.Above all it extends the love of the Church to all itsmembers.

The course would not have been possible without thesupport of the Parish of St Nicholas. A special vote ofthanks must go to the Rev Frs Christodoulos andNicholas and the hard-working philoptochos for all thatthey do to make the day a success.

[email protected]

“To sin and not repent is blasphemy

against the Lord”, Anonymous

Issue 8

Portion 8.1 On envy and jealousy Another of the Seven Basic Crimes is envy. According to Saint John of Damascus envy is defined as: “pain arising from another’s good fortune”. According to one definition jealousy is defined as: “the feeling of something being taken from you which is exclusively yours”. According to Saint Ephrem the Syrian: “The person who injures themselves by envy and jealousy is pitiful, because they are a partaker of the devil’s work, through which death entered the world. Whoever is overcome by these passions is an enemy of others, and wants no one but themselves to be preferred. Those who succeed they belittle, the virtuous they criticize, and the diligent they call a show-off.” According to King Solomon: “Anger is unmerciful, and wrath is severe, but nothing stands before jealousy.” According to Saint John Chrysostom: “There is no sin worse, which separates a person from God and other people as envy. The avaricious rejoices when they gain money, but the envious rejoices when others suffer a loss.”

Portion 8.2 A description of the envious person According to Saint Ephrem the Syrian: “Whoever is jealous is a defeated person. They have both hatred and enmity, and are saddened by the progress of others. They are agitated when another is honored. They are anxious when another is exalted. They never rejoice with the successful. Towards all they are hypocritical, and criticize all.” Portion 8.3 On the cure of envy According to Saint Paisius: “If someone becomes aware of the gifts with which God has endowed them and fully utilizes them, then they will stop being envious and their life will be Paradise. Many people take no account of their own gifts; they see only the gifts of others and are overcome by envy. They view themselves as having been wronged, as lesser, and end up tormenting themselves, making their lives miserable. You see God is not unjust to anyone. He has given each person a unique gift which will help them with their spiritual progress. Each person should find the gift that God has given them and praise the benevolent God with humility.” Written by Metaphrastis

SCIENCE AND RELIGION COME TO ST NICHOLAS

Greek Community of Melbourne to openthree new Campuses

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) hasdecided to open three new after-hours campusesin 2018 in the outer Melbourne suburbs.

Students from South Morang, Narre Warren, andPoint Cook.and surrounding areas will be attractedto the new campuses.

The GCM places education at the forefront of itspriorities and this has been demonstrated by edu-cation initiatives this year that include encouragingNorthcote High School to return Modern Greek toits senior curriculum.


3 WAYS GAY

MARRIAGE WiLL

IMPACT

YOUR FAMILY

-

Changing the Marriage Act will impact you and your family For more

information on how changing the marriage

law will affect you and your family, go to:

Removing gender from our marriage law will have a domino effect that reaches schools, freedom of speech and freedom of religion.

It is OK to vote “no”.

In fact, if you are concerned about the impact of radical gay sex education in schools then you must vote “no”.

If you are concerned about freedom of speech then you must vote “no”.

And if you are concerned about freedom of religion then you must vote “no”.

coalitionformarriage.com.au

fb.me/coalitionformarriageaustralia

IT’S OK TO VOTE NO

Authorised by L Shelton, 4 Campion Street, Deakin ACT 2600

3 ways gay marriage WiLL IMPACT YOUR FAMILY

-

Changing the marriage law will have

consequences for what is taught in

our kids’ classrooms.

Changing the marriage law to allow same-sex couples to marry means taking gender out of our laws.

Radical gay sex education programs will become more widespread and compulsory as has happened overseas.

More and more kids will be taught their

If same-sex marriage becomes law, parents will not have a leg to stand on if they don’t want their kids taught radical sex education, and gender ideologies.

Saying ‘yes’ to same-sex marriage

means saying ‘no’ to parents’ rights.

Already we have seen the lengths the

‘Yes’ activists will go to shut down

any conversation or debate around

same-sex marriage.

If gender is removed from the marriage law, it will weaponise federal and state anti-discrimination laws giving activists the ability to drag people who disagree with gay marriage before human rights and anti-discrimination commissions.

This has already happened overseas where service providers who have declined to participate in same-sex weddings have been taken to court, lost their business and even been told their beliefs about marriage are illegal.


means saying ‘no’ to freedom

of speech.

If the marriage law is changed,

activists will use anti-discrimination

laws to prevent churches, charities

and schools from teaching or operating

in accordance with their beliefs.

This is already happening in Australia and it will only get worse if the law is changed.

Some activists have sought to have churches evicted from renting public school halls because their sermons have taught that marriage is between a man and a woman.

In the UK, a private Jewish primary school is now facing closure because the school refuses to teach the government


means saying ‘no’ to religious freedom.

IMPACT ON SCHOOLS1. IMPACT

ON FREE SPEECH

2. IMPACT ON RELIGION &

CHARITIES3.

TO BHMA8/24 OCTOBER 2017The Greek Australian VEMA

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Scholarships for new and existing students for 2019:

Academic Scholarships offered for entry to Year 7 and Year 11 in 2019 on the basis of ACER exam results.

Year 12 students who achieve an ATAR of 97.0 or above, will receive a scholarship to assist with

payment of fees for their first year of University study.

Entries close on Monday 5th February 2018.

Exams will be held at the College on Saturday 24th February 2018.

Applications and information are available via our website under the “Scholarships and Awards” icon.

For further information please call Angela Kringas on (02) 9311 3340

or online at www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au

For enrolment information please contact the Enrolment Officer: Angela Kringas by email at [email protected]

S T S P Y R I D O N C O L L E G E


Greek Australian Senator resigns ahead of rulingon his eligibility

Australian Senator Nick Xenophon, akey independent lawmaker, said recentlyhe was resigning from national politics,potentially complicating Prime MinisterMalcolm Turnbull’s efforts to pass legis-

lation. Turnbull does not have a majorityin the Senate and has relied onXenophon’s party, the fourth largest blocin the upper house, to pass legislation.

Xenophon’s replacement will come

from his party, which bears his name, butis likely to be a far less experienced com-pared with Xenophon’s nine years as aSenator.

Xenophon’s future as a Senator was

under a cloud due to him holding possi-ble dual citizenship with Britain. Underthe constitution a lawmaker must onlyhold Australian citizenship to be eligibleto be elected to the national parliament.

Xenophon had renounced his Greekcitizenship, which he received from hismother, but had not been aware he heldpossible British citizenship.

While he was born in Australia, his fa-

ther was born in Cyprus, which was a Bri-tish colony until independence in 1960.

Xenophon’s citizenship issue is due tobe determined by Australia’s High Court.

In announcing his surprise resignation,Xenophon said he would stand for elec-tion in his home State of South Australianext year. State parliaments do not havethe same citizenship rule as the nationalparliament.

“I have increasingly concluded that youcan’t fix South Australia’s problems inCanberra without first fixing our politicalsystem at home. South Australia politicsis broken and politically bankrupt,” Xe-nophon told reporters in Adelaide.

Meanwhile, Bill Kardamitsis, the Laborcandidate who-se ties to Greece ruledhim ineligible for parliament in a keyHigh Court decision 25 years ago, isadamant that the seven MPs exposed ashaving dual citizenship should be kickedout of federal politics.

Mr Kardamitsis, who contested theVictorian seat of Wills at a 1992 by-elec-tion, told The Australian: “I thought themoment I became an Australian citizenand swore my allegiance to the Queen —I thought that was it.”

“As far as I’m concerned, the whole lotof them are ineligible,” he said. “I thinkthey should be treated in the same waythat I was treated … I could have beenthe federal member for Wills.”

The citizenship imbroglio gripping theparliament returned to the High Courtfor three days of hearings earlier thismonth, with the government arguingMPs should not be disqualified for beingunaware they could be citizens of a for-eign country.

Reuters

ST DEMETRIOS THE GREAT-MARTYR

PARISH FEAST DAY 2017

WEDNESDAY 25TH OCTOBER 2017

Great Vespers - with His Grace Bishop Seraphim of Apollonia 7:00 PM After the service, all are welcome in the reception hall of our Parish where the agape-meal will be offered by the Philoptohos Society.

THURSDAY 26TH OCTOBER 2017 Matins and Divine Liturgy 8:00 AM After the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, all are welcome in the reception hall of our Parish for lunch. SUNDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2017 Matins, Divine Liturgy and procession of the icon of St Demetrios 8:00 AM After the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, all are welcome in the reception hall of our Parish for lunch with music and traditional Greek dancing by the parish dancing group.


By Geoffrey Pyatt * - Kathimerini, Athens

Greece is a pillar of stability in its region. We cooper-ate closely in advancing freedom and security in theBalkans, the Eastern Mediterranean and the broader re-gion. And Alternate Minister of National Defense Dim-itris Vitsas has been a strong proponent for expandingthe excellent cooperation we have at Souda Bay, whichstrengthens our alliance and every day helps us to ac-complish military missions in support of global peaceand security.

It is also important to remember that Greece is one ofa small handful of countries who regularly meet theirNATO defense spending commitments and, because ofits strategic location, has a very deep understanding ofthe importance of maintaining a strong national de-fense.

So, what’s at stake here is not just the increased busi-ness partnerships that arise from our defense relation-ship and Greece’s gradual economic recovery, but alsoincreased defense capabilities that are mutually benefi-cial and support our NATO commitments and ability tomake the world a safer place. Our interest in supportingGreece’s full exit from the economic crisis of the lasteight years is based in our understanding of Greece’scritical role as the region’s pillar of stability. The stron-ger Greece is, the safer its region will be.

Many American companies, like Lockheed Martin,Raytheon and ATK, clearly agree, as they have estab-lished strong business partnerships in Greece. AndGreek defense companies such as IDE/Intracom, Hel-lenic Defense Systems and Theon Sensors are alreadyworking with American firms and competing globally.However, there is definitely more interest from Ameri-can companies, hoping to get involved in Greek ports, inthe energy sector, and also in civil aviation as the Greekmarket rebounds.

On Friday, I was at the Thessaloniki Summit, where Ispoke about our efforts to support Greece in its eco-nomic recovery and, specifically, about ways to supportGreek innovation and increase its foreign direct invest-ment, especially from the US. I’d like to reiterate a fewof the points I made there.

American and Greek companies alike seek a favor-able, predictable and stable business climate, andGreece’s legal and bureaucratic system should supportthese companies and potential investment. Businessesdon’t mind paying taxes, as long as paying taxes affordsthem stability and an environment to grow. The privati-zation and sale of public properties is also an importantstep in the right direction.

Last, to attract reliable and sustainable investment,there must be an expectation of transparency and fullknowledge of all the partners in any business deal.American companies are well known for their trans-

parency, for their adherence to the Foreign CorruptPractices Act, and for their respect for the rule of law ingeneral. I believe that’s a unique and important advan-tage of doing business with US companies, one that’snot found with some of Greece’s other partners.

In 2016, Greece was the 10th fastest-growing sourceof foreign direct investment in the United States, andthe United States was the biggest source of foreign di-rect investment in Greece. We saw that, for instance,last summer, when US funds led the way in Greece’ssuccessful return to financial markets.

Importantly, our economic and commercial relation-ship is also not just deals in Greece or in the UnitedStates. For instance, Mytilineos and General Electric justsigned an EPC deal for a power plant in Libya that willhelp that country reduce power shortages and modern-

ize a critical sector. This illustrates how Greek andAmerican companies together can drive growth andachieve commercial success in regions of strategic im-portance.

And we are certainly working more and more withGreece both on a regional and bilateral basis. Later thismonth, Trade Winds, a US Department of Commerceorganized trade mission to Southeastern Europe, willbring a delegation of US companies to Athens to ex-plore the Greek market and potential partnership op-portunities.

* Geoffrey R. Pyatt is the US ambassador to Greece. The abovecomprises extracts (edited for context) from his speech at the2017 Annual Meeting and Exposition of the Association of the USArmy in Washington earlier this month.

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US ambassador: Greece a pillar of stability

US ambassador

to GreeceGeoffrey R. Pyatt

OCTOBER 201712/28 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

On Sunday 17 September 2017 at the request andwith the blessings of His Eminence ArchbishopStylianos Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church inAustralia, the Greek Orthodox faithful and clergy ofSydney gathered together at St Nicholas church inMarrickville (NSW), for a Paraclesis service to theTheotokos as the Protector of Marriage and to prayfor the national postal vote.

A beautiful icon of the Virgin Mary, dedicated withthe new name “Bride of God and Protectress of Mar-riage” was painted for the historic occasion.

The service was presided by His Grace Bishop Iako-vos of Miletoupolis and was attended by well over

1,300 people. After the service His Grace Bishop Iakovos addres-

sed the faithful. The service was so well attended thatit took over 2.5 hours for the faithful to finish venerat-ing the icon.

In His recent Encyclical on marriage His Eminencereminded the faithful that, ‘It …constitutes a sacredand inviolable obligation for all of us, excluding noone, to record ‘NO’ on the relative Postal SurveyForm, and to express “with one mouth and one heart”our absolute objection to such an unholy Legislation,which would put at risk the interests of the Family andMarriage for the whole of society.…’.

Greek Orthodox faithful flock to prayer service

for the national postal vote

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It has been said before that the highest levels ofservice depend upon the smallest of things. Havingyour name remembered by the waiter. A minute ortwo saved on your order when you are running late.Handed your favourite newspaper. It is these kinds oftiny but thoughtful gestures that I am reminded ofwhen I sit down for a coffee with Sam Tsolakis at TheVillage.

He may only have been in business for six months orso but Sam has all the ease and composure of a veter-an Hamilton restaurateur. Is it because you feel sogenuinely welcome in his cafe that you may as wellhave known the man for your entire life? Maybe it isthe way he seems to enjoy juggling a number of tasksat once.

Or is it a uncommon combination of both?Although The Village has plenty of morning cus-

tomers seated inside and out, Sam has all the time inthe world to sit down and share with me his passionsfor mediterranean food, his ancestral homeland ofGreece and the cup of coffee now in front of me. Hehas also gone to the trouble of organising the mosthelpful of things – a one-on-one chat, in the café, withthe person who roasts and blends the beans ground inhere every day.

Under the brand new banner of First Call Roasters,local coffeesmith Doug Thew lost his fair share ofsleep before finalising the flavours for Sam and hisgrowing numbers of customers. Using Colombian,Guatamalan and Ethiopian beans to complete a medi-um-bodied but sweet finishing brew, Thew has addeda fresh element to this famous coffee neighbourhood.His years of dedication to the roasting craft havehandily coincided with his and Sam’s mission to cus-tom roast a classic all rounder.

Another coincidence might be the colours of theFirst Call branding – a quintessentially Hellenic pairingof blue and white that has livened up the overall fa-

cade enormously. On the inside of the cafe, where I sitwith a traditional Greek breakfast of haloumi, olivesand lemon-oiled eggs ($20), an entire wall has beendevoted to a sunset painted over the Aegean. Nearwhere Sam holds his arms out to welcome more cus-tomers like long lost cousins, a cosy row of tables is

filled with old men reading their favourite newspaper.In any other place the artwork above their headswould feel too sentimental - like a tribute to an old-fashioned place far away. In this village it suits per-fectly.

Source: Newcastle Herald (14/10/2017)

The Village is much more than a cafe that serves coffeeAn entire wall has been devoted to a sunset painted over the Aegean

Sam Tsolakis sits in front of amural of a sunset on the Aegean

in his restaurant, The Village, onBeaumont Street, Hamilton.

Picture: Simone De Peak

Japanese Philhellene to save Hippocrates’ tree on Kos

Αn 81-year-old Japanese man has tak-en the initiative to save the aging Hip-pocrates’ plane tree on the island of Kos.

In its present condition, the agingplane tree; platanos in Greek, cannot livelonger than 25 years, scientists say.

The Japanese philhellene; phy-topathologist Tetsuya Okada, who is anexpert on the treatment of plants withsimilar diseases, estimates that by takingappropriate measures; such as unloadingroots from unnecessary weight, the lifeof the tree can be lengthened for cen-turies.

Okada visited Kos on Tuesday andspoke with the coordinator of the Decen-tralized Aegean Administration, NikosTheodoridis. He had been on the islandtwo years ago with a group of plant spe-cialists, and since then, they have pre-pared a study on the subject.

The study, has been sent to the Min-istry of Rural Development and is underapproval procedures.

Once the study is approved, the Japan-

ese phytopathologist will launch a cam-paign to find the necessary resources todo the work required.

According to myth, Hippocrates taughthis disciples under this particular planetree on Kos. It is also believed that Paulthe Apostle, taught under the tree.

The tree is a listed monument of na-ture since 1985 (Government Gazette589 / B / 1985).

Platanos is located in Platanos Square,in front of the Knights’ Castle and theGovernor’s Office, next to the Gazi Has-san Mosque (erected in 1776) in the cen-ter of Kos town.

The current tree is about 500 years oldand is likely to be the descendant of theoriginal tree that was there at the time ofHippocrates.

Over the centuries, the tree’s trunkand older branches have deteriorateddue to various fungi and wood insects,which has resulted in a large crack in itsinterior.


Arts, Food & WineEditor: Imogen Coward

“Who shoots at the midday sun...”By Taliesin Coward

Here in Australia it would be hard to beunfamiliar with Tall Poppy Syndrome. In-deed, it seems to form part of the gener-al backdrop of Australians’ attitude to-wards others (especially those who puton ‘airs and graces’), and is a trait ofwhich some people seem strangelyproud. I say strangely, because the moreyou know of its origins, what it means,and its impact, the more you realise it issomething one should be anything butproud.

So where does Tall Poppy Syndromecome from? Fascinatingly, the concept isliterally as old as history itself, beingfound in the writings of the ‘father of his-tory’, the Greek historian Herodotus. Inbook V of his Histories, written duringthe 5th century B.C., Herodotus recountsthe tale of how Periander (the tyrant ofCorinth) sent a messenger to Thrasybu-lus (the tyrant of Miletus) asking adviceon the best and safest way to govern hiscity. According to the tale, Thrasybulustook the messenger to a field of corn. Asthey walked, Thrasybulus continuallyasked the messenger why he had beensent by Periander, all the time findingthe tallest ears of corn and cutting themoff, until the best and richest part of thecrop was destroyed. He then sent themessenger away. Returning to Perian-der, the messenger reported that Thrasy-bulus had given no counsel, but relayedhis strange behaviour in the field. Perian-der at once understood Thrasybulus’meaning: to slay those in his town withoutstanding influence or ability – advicewhich he followed. This story was alsorecounted by Aristotle in his Politics,though in this instance, the roles are re-versed with Periander advising Thrasybu-lus.

So why not ‘Tall Corn Syndrome’? Forthe answer to this, we have to jump for-ward a few hundred years to around the1st century A.D., and the Roman histori-an Livy. In His History of Rome, Livy tellsa similar tale to Herodotus. Instead ofGreek tyrants, however, the advice isfrom the tyrannical Roman king LuciusTarquinius Superbus, to his son SextusTarquinius, on what to do once he hadacquired complete control of the city ofGabbi (Latium). Just like Herodotus’ tale,the tyrannical king gave no verbal replyto the envoy and choose instead to muti-late the tallest specimens of a particularspecies of plant: poppies. According toLivy, Sextus then set about removing thechief men of Gabbi by either killing themor driving them out.

It should be clear that, at its heart, TallPoppy Syndrome is totally different innature to gentle mocking designed tokeep people from getting a swollenhead. The latter is an admirable trait thatAustralians share with the English (wit-ness the willingness of both nations topoke fun at their political leaders), and isa tradition easily found in ancient Rome.For example, Roman generals who hadenjoyed great success could be granted a

‘Triumph’, a parade through the city. Thiswas one of the few times that a soldierwas allowed inside the city of Rome, andthe Triumphal general would have hisgreat deeds recounted and celebrated,and his spoils of war proudly displayed.However, the procession also includedsoldiers singing ribald songs at the ex-pense of the Triumphal general in orderto keep him grounded.

Whilst humour and a desire to avoid aperson’s character being distorted withby a sense of their own importance un-derlies the latter, gentle mocking, TallPoppy Syndrome has, at its core, spite,maliciousness, and evil intent – a will tobelittle and cause harm to those of mer-it. The damage caused by it, even when ittakes the less drastic form (when com-pared to exile and execution) of bullying,is very real and measurable. A recent stu-dy was conducted by the University ofWaikato in New Zealand, exploring how,in a country where Tall Poppy Syndromewas well established (also called ‘Crabmentality’ after how crabs will, whenplaced in a bucket, pull escaping crabsback down), could effect student per-formance. It demonstrated that stu-dents’ test/exam grades increased by 10-18% (with a larger gap between high andlow grades) if the students’ ranks werereported privately, than if they weremade publically available.

The above has interesting implicationsfor education, and perhaps people’s per-formance in general, but what are theimpacts when Tall Poppy Syndrome be-

comes entrenched in a country’s psyche?The effect may be quite insidious. Littleover 100 years ago, Australia’s ambitionswere clear. The Garden Palace in Sydney(constructed in 1879 and sadly burned toa cinder a few short years later) was amarvel, and Australia’s answer to Lon-don’s famous Crystal Palace. The GardenPalace was an ornate Victorian buildingwhich sat on the edge of the harbour, infront of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Cov-ering more than 5 acres of land, measur-ing 800 feet in one direction and 500 feetthe other, and with a central dome over100 feet across and more than 200 feethigh, photos show it dwarfing the trees,people, and the other government build-ing surrounding it. This magnificent pub-lic structure, which made Sydney lookwell and truly like a European capital,saw the 1879 International Exhibitionwhere 34 countries – ranging from theGerman Empire to New Zealand – exhib-ited the best of their art, technology andproduce. Similarly, Sydney’s town hall(Centennial Hall), when it opened in1889 was not only the largest town hallin the world, but also had the largestpipe-organ in the world. As the thenmayor noted, this was done for futuregenerations, and only fitting for a citythat was third amongst the cities ofGreat Britain, and must become “theLondon of the Southern seas”. All this ina country which had not yet become itsown nation (that would come later whenthe Commonwealth of Australia Act 1900– otherwise known as our Constitution –was passed by the Imperial Parliamentand came into effect in 1901).

Today, when manufacturing has largelyfled, when it is becoming increasinglyhard to find Australia-made produce,and where the principal concern seemsto be sending raw materials off for othercountries to turn into amazing (or not soamazing) products, one can’t help butfeel that, as a country, Australia’s goalshave become more tame and our focusmore mundane. If this is so, it seems un-deniable that widespread Tall Poppy Syn-drome plays a part: one can hardly ex-pect people, individually or as a nation,to strive to achieve the extraordinary if itresults in public censure. For a country toachieve the extraordinary, it has to en-courage it.

Lofty goals and grand achievementsshould be a cause for celebration. To fin-ish, I leave you with the words of one ofthe greatest Elizabethan poets, PhilipSydney: Who shoots at the midday sun,though he be sure he shall never hit themark, yet as sure he is, that he shallshoot higher than he who aims but at abush.

References:

Aristotle, Politics 1284aHerodotus, Histories V. 92-fLivy, History of Rome I. 54‘Mayor’s opening address’, The SydneyMorning Herald (28 Nov. 1889), p. 8.

Spacey, S., ‘Crab Mentality, Cyberbully-ing and “Name and Shame” Rankings’, (University of Waikato, 19th April 2015).


On September 10th, St Stylianos Parish, Gymea (NSW), with the Blessing of His EminenceArchbishop Stylianos organised a fundraiser for Congo Central Africa to support the

Theological College and Mission there, raising $12,000! The Parish would like to thank itshardworking Committees and Sponsors. Above are two pictures from the auction fund rais-

ing with Committee members Paul Paris and Eleni Lakatos. However, more funds arerequired ans if you are able to contribute, please contact Fr Constantine 0418511212 or the

offices of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.

Fundraiser organised by St Stylianos Parish

for Congo Central Africaraises $12,000

OECD data shows Greeks are the hardest working

people in Europe

The idea that Greeks are lazy, laid-back people when it comes to work, has been aprejudice widely spread in northern Europe; and particularly in Germany, as the caus-es of Greek recession. However; new data released earlier this month from the Or-ganisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) paint a very differ-ent picture, and it shows that Greeks are the hardest working people in Europe.

According to the data, with 2,035 working hours per year (an average of 39 hoursper week), Greece is positioned in 9th place in the world, way above any other Euro-pean country. This data is pretty impressive by itself, but even more so, if one con-siders both the huge unemployment rate and the rising number of part-time jobs inpost-recession Greece.

In the rest of the world, OECD data shows that the only countries with more aver-age working hours than Greece are South Korea, Taiwan, India, Costa Rica, Brazil,Mexico, Singapore and Hong Kong; which tops the list.

Concerning Europe, the country with the fewest number of hours per week wasGermany, with an average of 26. The UK averages 32 hours per week.

Cartographer and self-described linguist and mathematician Jakub Marian, createdthe map featured above, based on the OECD data.

TO BHMA16/32 OCTOBER 2017

TravelThe Greek Australian VEMA

BY HARIS ARGYROPOULOS

The villages on the northeastern sideof Mount Parnassos, some 170 kilo-meters northwest of Athens, are a veryinteresting proposition for a weekendouting. The foothills of the mountain,which look out over a huge plain, hostsome fine guesthouses, good eatingplaces, historical sites and plenty of op-portunities for mountain walks.

Amfikleia is a lively and friendly vil-lage – a listed traditional settlementand home to at least 500 stone-builthouses with neoclassical elements andarched gates. It also has a wonderfulchurch dedicated to the Virgin Mary,with old frescoes, several ambientguesthouses and good tavernas. Astroll to its upper reaches will be re-warded with excellent views of the vil-lage and the plain below. If you comeby train, check out the old diesel en-gines at the station. An invigoratingwalk, lasting about an hour-and-a-half,is to the Monastery of Aghia Ier-ousalim, inside a cave, believed to havebeen built around 1200 by the Cru-saders. On the way, you’ll find a wa-ter spring and a huge walnut tree –look out for squirrels. Accommodationin Amfikleia tends to be expensive, es-

pecially in winter, due to its proxim-ity to Mt Parnassos’s popular ski cen-ter (17 km).

Driving across the plain in a south-easterly direction, you’ll come to Ka-to Tithorea after 8.5 km and, after tak-ing a right turn, ascend to the villageof Tithorea, on the slopes of Parnas-sos. Signs of habitation in the area datefrom as early as 2000 BC as well as re-mains of a Hellenistic-era wall. An up-hill climb taking a little over 90 min-utes will bring you to a historic cave(called “Mavri Troupa” – “Black Hole”– by the locals) above a gorge, whichwas used as a hideout by Odysseas An-droutsos, a hero of the War of Inde-pendence against the Ottomans.Tithorea has a pretty square builtaround a plane tree and is reputed forits olive oil and wine.

An attractive route across the plainin a northeasterly direction, 10 kmfrom Amfikleia, brings you to verdantPolydrosos, frequented for its popu-lar tavernas and cafes. There are sev-eral beautiful locations around the vil-lage, in the area of Aghia Eleousa, and

a medieval tower near an old hy-dropower station. Polydrosos alsodeveloped the craft of knife making,of which there is one practitioner left.Ano Polydrosos is an appealing villagewith restored stone-built houses amida fir forest, brooks and fountains. Atthe springs near the Church of AghiaEleousa there are ancient and Byzan-tine ruins in a tranquil and lush area.Above the source of the Kifissos Riv-er – no relation to the one in Attica –

are the ruins of an early Christianchurch. The area, which is traversedby National Walking Route 22, also fea-tures the Polydrosos cave, with won-derfully strange formations.

On the road to Eptalofos, you willalso see signs to the “Fortification ofAncient Lilaea” – an acropolis with im-posing walls and towers built of hugestones. The ancient city of Lilaea, be-tween Kato Agoriani and Polydrosos,flourished between the 10th and 7th

centuries BC. Several of its towers re-tain their windows and bastions.

Near Tithorea is Ancient Chaeronea,the birthplace of 1st-century AD his-torian Plutarch. The site is best knownfor the statue of a lion guarding thetomb where the fallen in the 388 BCbattle against Philip of Macedon wereburied. There is an archaeologicalmuseum, an ancient theater carved in-to the rock and an acropolis with awall.

Where to stayIn Amfikleia: Kyriaki (tel 29011,www.xenonaskiriaki.gr), tastefulguesthouse with excellent breakfast,pool and fantastic views; Dadi (tel29040, www.xenonasdadi.gr),restored 1890 house with wonderfulgarden, very clean. In Polydrosos:Karahalios (tel 51116), restored oldhouse with courtyard; Erohos Suites(tel 29610, www.eroxos.gr), deluxe,wonderful views; Scholarchio (tel51777), an old school with a loft area;In Tithorea: Amfikaia Farm (tel 48860,www.amfikaia.gr), agritourismcomplex.

Transport & useful infoTouring the area requires your owntransport, unless you are an avidwalker. The shortest route toAmfikleia is via the Athens-Lamiahighway – follow signs for Kastro,Orchomenos and Livadia (watch yourspeed on the Kastro-Livadia stretch orthe police will book you). Without acar, you will have to rely on taxis.Trains will take you to Amfikleia andTithorea (tel 1110, 210.527.7777) inabout one hour and 45 minutes. Areaphone code: 22340; Amfikleia police:22435; health center: 22944/5; townhall: 22435.

Spring of spiritAbove the source of the Kifissos River – no relation to the one in Attica – are the ruins of an early Christian church

Parnassos villagesRun for the hills

Where to eatIn Polydrosos: En Parnasso, small,ambient family restaurant with goodwine and desserts; Magos (tel 51422),well known in the area for its amazinggrilled meat; Kotsoulas (tel 51275), onthe square, serves game. In Amfikleia:Andreas, excellent homemade dishes;Giatros, on the square, fine Greek grill;Merentitis (tel 22246), traditionalGreek cuisine and grilled dishes;Mantha’s Pies (tel 23020). In Tithorea:Limeri tou Seskoulou (tel 71249) andSteki tou Giala (tel 71237), which bothserve excellent mutton and have bigfireplaces which serve as grills.

What to see & buy Amfikleia’s Bread Museum, withdozens of different shapes of breadand traditional equipment used in itspreparation; an annual, three-daybread fete is held in November; Davlia,5.5 kilometers from Kato Tithorea, averdant village near ancient Davlida –mentioned by Homer – withpanoramic views; 5 km from Davlia, ina wonderfully lush spot at 900meters, is the Convent of AghiaIerousalim, founded in 1088; buywidely available good fir honey, fetaand yogurt; the Argyriou Winery inPolydrosos has very good Merlot.

Easily accessible from Athens, this group of small communities offers opportunities for hiking or just sitting back and admiring nature

TRAVELATHENSPLUS • FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2010

Parnassos villages

OCTOBER 2017 DISCIPLINE IN THE HOME ORTHODOX AND …greekorthodox.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/October-2017.pdf · (9/10), where Bishop Seraphim conducted an Agiasmos service.

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