The importance of safeguarding the Hellenic language within the ecclesiastical life of the diaspora was underscored by Archbishop Makarios of Australia during the Vespers of the Deposition on Good Friday.
Officiating at St Nektarios Hellenic Orthodox Church, part of the Holy Diocese of Chora, the Archbishop delivered a firm message on the role language. Makarios: Without the Hellenic language, we are lost plays in preserving both the cultural and spiritual identity of Hellenic Australians.
During his pastoral visit to Melbourne, Archbishop Makarios addressed the increasing use of a mixed Hellenic and English format in church services, raising concerns about maintaining the appropriate balance.
“We are Greeks here. Who here does not understand Greek?” he said. “I did not like that the service was divided half in Greek and half in English. We are Greeks and we must preserve and uphold this. If the Church loses its Greek identity, then we are lost… We must hold on.”
He further stressed the importance of strengthening the tradition of Hellenic-language Byzantine chant, while acknowledging the need to connect with younger members of the community.
“We need to find chanters who can chant in Greek, and include some English for our children, to draw them in and bring them closer to the Church, but not (chant) half and half,” he noted.
In concluding his address, the Archbishop reiterated the significance of maintaining cultural continuity within the diaspora.
“We do not forget our identity, and I am pleased that you accept and honour it.”
