The Greek Orthodox Church of St Nicholas in Darwin has resumed liturgical services after a temporary closure reported the NT News.
According to the media report, normal services resumed after clearances by the NT chief health officer and police, with Father Joel Xanthos back at the helm.
The announcement comes after the church suspended its Sunday service on 21 November 21. The parish had attracted media attention after NT Police Watch Commander Richard Howie said officers attended the church following a dispute that arose "between some of the 'freedom' supporters that had gathered to vocalise their beliefs" over vaccine mandates.
Commander Howie said the disturbance involved yelling, pushing and shoving, but in a statement police said there were no reports of injuries.
The incident took place on the occasion of OXI Day celebrations where some 300 people attended, according to Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis, who said there were about 20 to 30 people in the crowd who aren't usually seen at the event.
"All of a sudden they became very patriotic. But obviously, the patriotism degenerated very quickly into their own personal reviews by yelling and calling out," he told ABC Radio Darwin.
Mr Vatskalis said the most concerning behaviour on display during the flashpoint inside the church was the treatment of NT Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro.
"[She was addressed] in a very confronting and intimidating manner, which I find very disturbing," he said.
SYDNEY CHURCH OF ST CONSTANTINE & HELEN
According to sources, the Greek Orthodox Church of Saints Constantine & Helen in Newtown, Sydney, is set to resume liturgical services shortly with the much loved Father Nektarios at the helm.