Sts Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Institute
27 Apr 10: Archimandrite Dr Themistocles (Adamopoulos) at RMIT – 14 April 2010
On the evening of Wednesday, 14 April, Holy Ascension Orthodox Mission and RMIT Chaplaincy hosted an event at the Spiritual Centre for Archimandrite Dr Themistocles (Adamopoulos). Fr Themi, as he is lovingly called, presented a seminar titled, “Conflict and Resolution in Contemporary West Africa & the Role of the Orthodox Church.” Fr Themi is a missionary from the Diocese of Ghana (Patriarchate of Alexandria) to Sierra Leone. Fr Themi for the last decade has been working in Africa as a missionary in Kenya and in the last 2 years in Sierra Leone. His philosophy is “Charity through Education.”
Fr Themi gave a very enlightening and sobering presentation on the situation in Africa, especially with the work that is being undertaken in Sierra Leone. There was also a very engaging discussion afterwards with audience members. The evening concluded with snacks and refreshments, and a book stall with literature about the Orthodox Christian Church was set up for people to browse. Part of the proceeds from the book stall were sent as donations to Sierra Leone. Fr Themi also had an opportunity to have a one-on-one chat with the many who stayed after the presentation.
It was a great evening, a well-attended event from both the general public as well as students and it was truly a successful event for RMIT chaplaincy. We thank Fr Themi for sharing his experiences with RMIT and we will be organizing another similar event at RMIT when Fr Themi returns later in the year.
