Australia, New Zealand and Lebanon

On Wednesday 30th October 2024 a special luncheon was hosted in honour of His Holiness Catholicos-Patriarch Mar Awa III at the Archbishopric of His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM, Sydney. With great pleasure the Archdiocese hosted the many heads of churches in Sydney. This included: – His Eminence Archbishop Robert Rabbat of the Melkite Catholic Church of Australia and New Zealand – His Eminence Archishop Mar Amel Nona of the Chaldean Catholic Church of Australia and New Zealand – His Eminence Archbishop Mor Malatius Malki Malki of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Australia & New Zealand – His Eminence Archbishop Georges Casmoussa of the Syriac Catholic Church in Sydney – His Excellency Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay of the Maronite Eparchy of Australia, New Zealand and Oceania – Reverend Fr Nekatros Nemme representing His Eminence Archbishop Basilios Kodseie of the Antiochian Orthodox Church Archdiocese of Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines – Reverend Monsignor Basil Sousanian of the Armenian Catholic Church in Sydney – Rev Anastasios Bozikis (President) & Mr David Rose (Secretary) of the NSW Ecumenical Council – Ms Elizabeth Stone, General Secretary of the National Council of Churches in Australia The luncheon also hosted government officials that included the Premier …

In the afternoon of Monday, October 28, 2024, His Holiness Mar Awa III, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East was formally welcomed as an official guest of the Australian War Memorial at the national capital, Canberra. The Catholicos-Patriarch and his accompanying delegation were received by War Memorial Director, Mr Matt Anderson PSM and commenced the visit with a rare opportunity curated by Mr Nick Fletcher, Head of Military Heraldry and Technology at the Memorial, viewing the service medals of the renowned Australian military leader, Lieutenant General Sir Stanley George Savige, KBE, CB, DSO, MC. The late Lieutenant General Sir Stanley George Savige, one of Australia’s most decorated military leaders of both World War I and II shares a remarkable and little known connection to the Assyrian Nation, having commanded an operation which saved more than 50,000 Assyrians from certain death during the Assyrian Genocide of WWI. Following this viewing and exchange on the century old connection of the Assyrian people to Australia, the delegation received a guided personal tour of the exhibits and His Holiness paid his respects to all service men and women at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. Concluding the visit, His Holiness participated in …

In a historic meeting underscoring the growing ties between Australia and the Assyrian community, His Holiness Mar Awa III, the Catholicos Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East, was welcomed in Canberra by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The meeting took place at Parliament House, where both leaders discussed pressing issues affecting Assyrian Christians globally, as well as the role of Australia in supporting religious practice and providing the platform for places of worship to thrive. Prime Minister Albanese expressed Australia’s solidarity with the Assyrian people, particularly in the face of ongoing struggles and displacement faced by Assyrian Christians in the Middle East. Australia is home to a vibrant Assyrian community, many of whom have fled persecution in countries such as Iraq and Syria. The Prime Minister acknowledged their contributions to Australia’s multicultural society and emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting religious minorities. His Holiness Mar Awa III, who has been a vocal advocate for the rights of Assyrians worldwide, commended Australia’s efforts in supporting refugees and promoting religious tolerance. He highlighted the importance of protecting ancient Assyrian heritage sites and fostering conditions that allow Assyrians to remain in their homelands, while also expressing gratitude for the sanctuary Australia …

The Assyrian Church of the East Youth Association (ACEYA) in Sydney hosted the 6th Archdiocesan Youth Conference, commencing on Wednesday 17th July and concluding on the 21st July 2024. The Conference welcomed youth members of Melbourne, Perth and Auckland, New Zealand. The five-day youth conference themed “Unlocking His Mercies” comprised of spiritually enriching sermons and seminars, alongside social activities strengthening pure Christian fellowship among the youth. The youth were sent on a five-day hunt to pickup the spiritual pieces of the spiritual key to unlock our Lord’s mercies. Ultimately meaning to unlock the Lord’s heart and enter it – making the realisation they themselves are the heart of the Lord. We are inspired to make this realisation through King David who became known as the heart of the Lord. The program was richly filled with sermons by His Beatitude Mar Meelis Zaia and His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya. Along with seminars presented by the parish priests of Sydney, including reverend priests from Melbourne and Auckland, Reverend Father Morris Daoud and Reverend Father Toma K Toma. Further to the prelates and clergy’s sermons and seminars, we welcomed Mr Steve Mortada who gave his personal testimony upon entering the True Faith. The …

Preserving Heritage: St. George Assyrian Language School in Melbourne In the multicultural landscape of Melbourne, diversity thrives as communities from all corners of the globe weave their cultural tapestries into the fabric of the city. Among these vibrant communities, the Assyrians stand as a testament to resilience, preserving their rich heritage in foreign lands. At the forefront of this cultural preservation effort lies the St. George Assyrian Language School, an institution dedicated to nurturing Assyrian language, culture, and faith. Established as a beacon of Assyrian identity, St. George Assyrian Language School has experienced remarkable growth over the years. In 2024, the school proudly welcomed a record-breaking 530 students through its doors. This surge in enrolment posed logistical challenges, necessitating the acquisition of demountable buildings to accommodate the expanding student body. Despite these challenges, the school’s commitment to providing a nurturing environment for Assyrian youth remained unwavering. At the heart of St. George Assyrian Language School’s curriculum lies the preservation of the Assyrian language. With meticulous attention to detail, students are guided through the complexities of this ancient Semitic tongue, ensuring its continuity for generations to come. The school utilizes a comprehensive series of textbooks tailored to different levels of proficiency, …

Sydney, Australia – In a momentous occasion for the Assyrian Church of the East, Mar Awraham Youkhanis, the Bishop of London and Western Europe, has achieved a significant academic milestone. On Thursday, 21 March 2024, His Grace was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree from Macquarie University, one of Australia’s leading institutions of higher education, located in Sydney. The ceremony witnessed the participation of distinguished figures from both the religious and academic communities. His Grace’s doctoral thesis, entitled “The Book of Admonitions to Hermits and Monks By ʿAḅed-Mšīḥā Ḥīrtāyā: A Critical Edition of the Syriac Texts and English Translation with Introduction and Critical Notes,” represents a significant contribution to the study of ancient East Syriac texts and the broader field of Eastern Christian studies. Under the supervision of Dr. Ken Parry, Professor Paul McKechnie, and Professor Rifaat Ebied, His Grace embarked on a scholarly journey that not only illuminates the spiritual and ascetic practices of early Christianity but also offers critical insights into the rich history of Syriac literature and theology. The graduation ceremony was graced by the presence of His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM, Metropolitan of Australia, New Zealand, and Lebanon, alongside His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya, …

On Sunday, 4th February 2024, the congregation gathered in St Abdisho Cathedral in Melbourne, Australia, to celebrate the Commemoration of our blessed Martyr and Saint, Mar Benyamin Shimun. This blessed day commenced with the celebration of the Holy Eucharistic Liturgy celebrated by His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya, Bishop of the Diocese of Victoria and New Zealand. Following the Holy Eucharistic Liturgical Service, the Assyrian Church of the East Youth Association Melbourne hosted a morning breakfast in Mona Lisa Hall in celebration of the life of this blessed Saint. The programme also included the 2024 Annual Graduation Ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of Assyrian Language School, High School, TAFE and University graduates. The programme began with a wreath–laying ceremony by His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya, who was accompanied by our reverend fathers and esteemed graduates. Following an opening prayer and morning breakfast, the graduation ceremony commenced. His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya presented our graduates with a certificate and gifts, commending their efforts and perseverance throughout their studies. The ceremony saw Assyrian youth complete tertiary courses such as Medicine, Oral Health and Business, as well as high school students who graduated in 2023, a number of whom graduated with ATARs of over …

On Tuesday 30th January the Assyrian Church of the East Youth Association in Sydney held its annual Youth Meet, presided over by His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM and clergy. His Beatitude expressed the great joy of the youth’s involvement in the church. He praised them for their active participation in the parish and their zeal and efforts in all youth and wider community events and programs. His Beatitude continued to discuss the challenging times we as Christians are facing in the society and the importance of God in our lives. With helpful tips, His Beatitude worked through the challenges with the youth and delivering guidance on coping mechanisms to persevere in faith. The youth had the chance to fellowship afterwards with one another and share in a delightful meal together as a family in Christ. This marks the beginning of the youth ministries across Sydney parishes for 2024. The Church in Sydney takes this opportunity to thank all volunteers in ACEYA for their hard work and dedication in teaching and working for the youth and the wider community.

The Assyrian Church of the East Children’s Association (ACECA) hosted its eighth annual summer program, from Monday 15th January to Friday 19th January 2024 at St Hurmizd’s Assyrian Primary School, Greenfield Park. The week long program, themed “Stellar” took more than two hundred and fifty children on an intergalactic adventure into space where they proclaimed the glory of God – along with the heavens, the stars, the moon and the rest of creation (Psalm 19:1). With the numerous rotational stations children explored how Jesus’ shined with hope, love, forgiveness, and joy to the world – and how we can do the same with His power! A massive appreciation to more than sixty Sydney youth of the Assyrian Church of the East who volunteered to run this intensive full-time program, taking time off work and holidays to ensure a great event for the children of our parishes.

The Board of Directors of the Assyrian Christian Schools in Sydney has announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art sports and performing arts centre at St Narsai Assyrian Christian College. The latest phase brings to completion the vision of His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM from over two decades ago to have a full educational system operated by the church. That pioneering vision is continually taking its form in reality. To foster creativity, encourage physical sports and manifest talents among school students, the ‎Assyrian Christian Schools Board chaired by His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya announced the commencement of construction of the third ‎phase in the St Narsai Assyrian Christian College complex in the Horsley Park area, through ‎the construction of a modern sports and arts centre. This wonderful project is scheduled to be completed in March ‎of 2025.‎ The centre contains the following features:‎ ‎- Two full-sized courts for playing futsal, basketball, volleyball, and netball -Suitable for a whole-school mass and whole-school assemblies.‎ – A fitness hall fitted with the latest sports equipment – Classes for the purpose of explaining the theoretical or technical aspect of applied sports or ‎technical lessons – Administrative offices for the college In addition to the …

As we look back on 2023, we reflect on the events and initiatives hosted by the Assyrian Church of the East in Sydney throughout the year. Our youth community experienced a year of immense growth—both in numbers and in faith. From spiritual retreats to cultural celebrations, each event became a stepping stone for our members to draw closer to one another and deepen their connection with God. We kicked of the year by attending the 5th Archdiocesan Youth Conference hosted by ACEYA Melbourne. The conference provided us with a unique opportunity to unite with fellow Youth from Melbourne and New Zealand, sharing our faith together as one Church. The Conference theme, “Let Your Minds Be Above,’ served as a guiding light, encouraging us to elevate our thoughts to the Lord and His Kingdom. The memories created and the friendships formed during the Conference will undoubtedly remain etched in our hearts as we continue our journey of faith together. The Annual Youth Meet gathers our Youth across all parishes to kickstart our ministries for the year. His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia participates among our Youth to deliver a sermon tailored for our Youth. In 2023, we also announced the parish Youth …

On Thursday 14 December, the Assyrian Church of the East hosted its 10th annual Carols by the Cathedral. More than three thousand of parishioners gathered for the event to celebrate the upcoming Holy Feast of the Holy Nativity. The Carols programme featured the gifted Bella Taylor Smith from The Voice Australia, along with Sydney Parish Choirs and Sunday School. The day comprised of a variety of rides and amusements, delicious food and a concluding fireworks finale! The church thanks all the sponsors, service providers and parishioners for making it a wonderful day for the entire family.

The Assyrian Church of the East Youth Association hosted its annual Walkathon Fundraiser on Sunday 28 November 2021 with more than 600 walkers trekking the eight-kilometre route around St Hurmizd’s Cathedral in Greenfield Park. The map traced the steps of the Apostles of the East; St Addai, St Mari, St Thomas and St Simon Peter himself, where walkers passed by major cities that signified milestones in their ministry across the homeland: Seleucia, Nisibis, Babylon, Nineveh and Edessa. Walkers picked up a handout explaining the significance of the city and the church fathers’ commentary. The walk was officially opened by His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM and Reverend Fathers of Sydney parishes with a short program to welcome the walkers and cut the ribbon. The event concluded with a celebration at Edessa Reception Hall (Eden Venues) with entertainment, amusements and a barbecue. All proceeds from the Walkathon will go towards helping the needy displaced individuals and families in the Middle East, local charities in Australia and the works of the Youth Association in Sydney.