Sts Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Institute
14 Apr 16: Patronal Feastday of Holy Annunciation, 2016
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church, Brisbane, was pleased to welcome His Grace, Bishop George of Canberra, to preside at our patronal feastday. On the eve of the feast, after a discussion with some of the youth of our parishes, His Grace arrived at Holy Annunciation. He was greeted by the clergy of our parish, together with clergy from our Deanery, and the Great Vigil service was celebrated.
The next day, the Lenten Hours and Typika were served. After this, Bp George was greeted on his arrival, was vested, and proceeded to celebrate the Hierarchal Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom – the first Liturgy that His Grace had served at our parish – followed by a cross-procession.
At the end of the Liturgy, Bp George gave a sermon on the Mother of God, and how she assented to bear the Son of God, showing her role as a servant of God; His Grace pointed out that each of us are called servants of God, and so we should likewise examine our own lives to ensure that what we do aligns with this lofty title.
After the Vesperal Divine Liturgy, Bp George congratulated the clergy and parishioners of Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church on their patronal feastday, and His Grace noted the hard work of all in ensuring a smooth service within unique rubrics. All attendees were invited to a luncheon, which was co-ordinated by our parishioners.
Thank you to His Grace, Bishop George, for serving in our parish, and to all those – clergy and laity alike – who attended our parish and contributed to the smoothness and joy of our parish feastday!
Fr Andrew Smith, assistant priest at Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church, Brisbane.
You can view the photo album through this link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1068650636528056.1073741871.118513774875085&type=3