Thousands of Greek Australians gathered in the heart of Sydney yesterday to commemorate Greek Independence Day- March 25, 1821.
The Greek National Day celebrations began with the Thanksgiving Service Doxology held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of The Annunciation of Our Lady Theotokos, in Redfern.
Following, a Memorial Service with laying of wreaths was held at The Cenotaph in Martin Place.
The commemoration and parade took place in the presence of His Grace Bishop Seraphim, Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, Christos Karras, Trade Commissioner of Greece in Australia, Katia Gkikiza, Secretary of The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW, Michael Tsilimos, as well as Federal, State and Local government representatives and other Greek and Cypriot Diplomatic Officials.
Over 4,000 members of Sydney’s Hellenic community from various parishes, schools and Greek organisations marched from Martin Place to the iconic Sydney Opera House. Both the Australian and Greek flags were proudly waved high in the air through the streets of Sydney CBD.
A large crowd of proud parents, grandparents, members of the Greek and Cypriot communities, as well as tourists waited enthusiastically to welcome the parade procession as they entered the Sydney Opera House forecourt.
In honour of this culturally historic event, the combined choir from the three Greek Orthodox Colleges in Sydney sang the National Anthems and traditional songs. There was also traditional Greek dancing, poetry recited by students from the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW Language schools and speeches from dignitaries.
All together the six senior dancing groups finished their program by joining hands making one big circle, performing 'Macedonia Xakousti' which was accompanied by a passionate rendition sung by the combined Greek Orthodox School's choir.
*Images by Nick Bourdaniotis Photography for Greek City Times (Copyright)