8   Melbourne Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies

Melbourne Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies held its academic year commencement ceremony on Thursday 9th February 2006 at 7:30 pm at Saint Nicholas Church East Melbourne.

His Eminence Metropolitan Archbishop Paul is the Presiding Bishop of the Melbourne Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies. His Eminence led the service in the presence of other hierarchs, priests, nuns, honoured guests, and laypeople.

His Eminence encouraged all clergy, faithful, and interested people attending the service to recognise that the future of our churches requires a theological institution here in Australia to prepare our future clergy, teachers, and laypeople.

His Eminence gave heartfelt thanks to the original appointed convenor of the Melbourne Institute of Orthodox Theological Studies, Reverend Professor Robert Gribben (pictured, right), for his outstanding Christian love, in helping the Orthodox Christians in Melbourne establish a tertiary course in Orthodox Studies in Victoria. 

His Eminence was most mindful that without Professor Gribben's personal time and experience, and the good offices of his own theological college, that the course in Orthodoxy would not have come under the aegis of the Melbourne College of Divinity at this time, and so would not have been able to achieve government recognition.

9   Maoris and Orthodoxy

Dr Keith Morrison, a university lecturer on Orthodox Christianity, held a successful open question and answer seminar at the Old Archdiocese Headquarters, 8 Henry Street Punchbowl NSW, (across the road from Saint Nicholas Punchbowl) at 7:00pm on Wednesday 15 February 2006. 

A convert to Orthodoxy within New Zealand with strong Maori connections, it was interesting to hear how he found Orthodox Christianity.

Refreshments were served on the night, amid great fellowship. 

10   Annual Sydney Orthodox Youth Retreat

The Annual Sydney Antiochian Orthodox Youth Retreat for 2006 was held at the Merroo Christian Centre at Kurrajong in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, from Friday 17 February 2006 to Sunday 19 February.

The theme of the camp ‘What is the purpose of Christian life?’ was discussed over the three days.  Details of the program followed were on the Registration Form.

Dr Keith Morrison and Archimandrite Father Nabil both headed the retreat this year, with over 80 participants from Eastern Australia enjoying a most spiritually uplifting time, filled with true Christian love and friendship.

11   Stop and Think Sessions

Stop and Think Sessions are held every Friday night at Saint George Cathedral Redfern, Sydney, at 7:00pm with Archimandrite Father Nabil.
The classes kicked off this year on 3rd February. All are welcome to attend.

12   Saints Peter and Paul Harbour Cruise

Saints Peter and Paul Parish youth held a sell-out Sydney Harbour cruise on Friday 24 February 2006.

The cruise comprised a buffet sit down dinner. Participants described the night as one of the most enjoyable they have ever had, and are looking forward to more similar youth functions on Friday nights. The cruiser left from Gladesville Wharf which was an easy location for most to access.

All funds raised go directly to the building of the Saints Peter and Paul church.

Organisers were Charlie ( 0416 177 949 ) and Hisham ( 0418 170 687 ) of the Saints Peter and Paul Parish Youth.