On Saturday the 19th of October, a celebration was held in Goulburn, commemorating the consecration anniversary of the Antiochian Village, including St. Michael’s Monastery. Clergy along with the faithful travelled in bus-loads and gathered together to pray to God and share in communion.
With the blessing of, and presided over by, His Eminence, Metropolitan Basilios, the day began with a Matins service, commemorating the Prophet Joel and St. Varys, inside the chapel dedicated to St. Anna. After the Matins service, a procession of the faithful proceeded to main yard of the Monastery to an outdoor, constructed altar. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated in open air, giving the opportunity for the faithful to engage in the service.
Following the prayers another procession was led by the Antiochian Orthodox Stewards, filling all with additional joy- The Stewards drummed in sync, as the trumpets played a harmonious tune. The faithful community, enjoyed the beautiful flora of the Antiochian Village, while Metropolitan Basilios blessed the food and festivities for the rest of the day. A traditional soup was served, along with mnaeesh (pastries). The faithful community conversed, shared a meal of love together… the ‘Antiochian Festival’ was well under way!
Music played all day long in the background and granted the festive environment. A bookstore was set up which offered goods to create a small church at home including icons, books, incense, prayer ropes and more. The children enjoyed the festivities with set sporting activities that had been organised throughout the day. Also offered was face painting and jumping castles that had been set up, and proved to be a hit with the kids.
Overall it was a great day with many blessings where many gathered together as a community to glorify God for all His gifts- especially the use of the Antiochian Village in Goulburn. A special thanks to His Eminence, Metropolitan Basilios and all the clergy and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the day possible.
Please see the Antiochian Village page for more upcoming events! See you at the next one.
