Sts Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Institute
5 Sep 11: Saint Panteleimon Church Feast Day, Gosford
In accordance with parish custom, the main services in honour of the Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon, were transferred to the Saturday immediately following his commemoration. On the evening of Friday 12 August All-night Vigil was served. In addition to the rector, Father James Carles, four visiting clergymen were present: Archpriest George Lapardin, Priest Alexander Korjenewski (Carlton), Priest Simon Nekipelov (Strathfield), and Protodeacon Alexander Kotlaroff (Strathfield). Afterwards, the clergy and some of the faithful stayed behind for a festive supper.
The services on Saturday 13 August began with the blessing of water, served together by Father James and Protodeacon Alexander before the doors of the church. Although Fathers George and Simon were unable to return for the service on Saturday morning, a number of other clergymen arrived: Priest Daniel Metlenko (Centennial Park), Priest Alexander Filchakov (Blacktown), Priest Seraphim Chemodakov (Croydon), Hieromonk John McPherson (Holy Trinity Monastery, Monkerai), and Deacon Constantine Moshegov (Croydon). The Divine Liturgy was beautiful, with the church filled to overflowing. At the end of the service Father Seraphim gave a sermon on the life and significance of Saint Panteleimon. A moleben to the Saint followed. As people came to venerate the Cross, they were sprinkled with Holy Water and given an icon-card with a prayer to Saint Panteleimon.
Approximately 170 people – friends from Sydney and Newcastle in addition to Gosford parishioners – then gathered at the Niagara Park Community Centre for a wonderful festive lunch prepared by the Parish Ladies’ Auxiliary under the direction Head Sister, Kate Marcotrigiano (neè Kraiuhin). A number of beautiful cakes were auctioned and a raffle was drawn. All present had a lovely time, the only disappointment being the need for the bus that brought people from Sydney to depart somewhat earlier than expected. This was a joyful and encouraging day in the life of the Gosford parish.
