The AWA logo is symbolic of the mission and purpose of the Antiochian Welfare Association – community support and healing. The outstretched arms of the people in the centre of the logo symbolise the support and upliftment for people of all ages and diversity in the community. The olive branches on either side of the logo symbolise healing, as olive oil is used till this day for this spiritual purpose.

 

WE BELIEVE IN MERCY

The Antiochian Welfare Association (AWA) was officially established in October 2020 under the guidance of His Eminence Metropolitan Basilios. His goal was to establish an association for the relief of poverty, hardship, distress, helplessness and alienation amongst Australian citizens and residents suffering from these disadvantages in NSW. Through Christian values, the AWA aims to provide:

  • Education on issues that affect wellbeing e.g. drugs and alcohol, mental health, parenting skills, homework help etc.
  • Social and recreational activities and programs to improve quality of life for all age groups, including youth, socially isolated seniors and families experiencing difficulties

  • Information services, family support services, recreational and social programs and services to advance education and help enable residents to better integrate into the wider Australian community

  • Activities that promote culture and heritage of the Antiochian Orthodox community through language, dance, food/cooking and history of the community

  • Development and leadership programs to strengthen moral and Christian values of Antiochian young people

  • Support and resource Antiochian Orthodox parishes to address local disadvantage and vulnerable members of their community

HELP WITH THE CHANGE TODAY

AWA has its constitution and board, and it is registered as incorporated.

The main goal for the AWA Committee in 2021 is to apply for funding to meet the objectives and address the needs of the community.

AWA will financially depend on government the philanthropic grant funding and the generous donations of community members. To donate to AWA, please transfer your donation to the following account:

  • Account Name: AWA Donations
  • BSB: 062-202
  • Account Number: 1118 8933

To receive a receipt for your donation, please send an email to welfare@antiochian.org.au with your full name, date of donation, amount of donation, mobile phone number and email address. The receipt will then be emailed or mailed to you.

For any inquiries pertaining to AWA, please contact the secretary Laura Attallah by clicking here or welfare@antiochian.org.au)..

ST. JOHN THE MERCIFUL

His Eminence elected St John the Merciful – Patriarch of Alexandria as the patron saint of AWA, as the saint is well known for welfare and charity.

There will be an annual celebration of the establishment of this committee on the patron saint’s feast day (12th November).

Image Credit: ArtByChimevi

By endurance you gained your reward, venerable Father;
you persevered in prayer unceasingly;
you loved the poor and provided for them in all things.
Blessed John the Merciful, intercede with Christ God that our souls may be saved.

Troparion of St. John the Merciful • Tone 8