School students, parish members, community club representatives and officials gathered on Sunday 27 October at the St Panteleimon Greek Orthodox Parish of Dandenong for a full day of events honouring OHI Day as well as celebrating 65 years since the parish was established.
The day started with a 7.30am service and doxology, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony in the presence of dignitaries, including church, consular and community representatives.
Representing the Greek Consul General in Melbourne, Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Maria Gidarakou paid tribute to the fallen, followed by the St Panteleimon Parish President Stefanos Karamoschos.
Wreaths were also laid by several community stakeholders, including Giannis Kostoulias from the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria, Argyro Michelakis of Melbourne and Victoria’s Pancretan Association, and President of the Brotherhood of Evia Evripos, OAM Filitsa Leonardos.
At the end of a divine liturgy and wreath-laying ceremony, attendees proceeded to the parish grounds on Herbert St, to enjoy a full day panigiri from 11am to 5pm.
Souvlakia, loukoumades, kids activities, Greek music and dancing were part of the package as well as a prize raffle, while DJ Joe on the decks, had attendees on their toes till late afternoon.
