Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God in Brisbane

October 9, 2024

On Sunday, October 6, the Church of the Protection of the Mother of God in Brisbane held a double celebration: the Parish Feast and the Solemn Holy Communion.

Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God in Brisbane

The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was led by Bishop Mykola Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, who had arrived in Brisbane a few days earlier for a pastoral visit. He was concelebrated by Fr. Stefan Sapun, the administrator of the Parish of the Protection of the Mother of God in Brisbane, and Fr. Martin Arnold.

During the homily, Bishop Mykola highlighted the historical significance of the feast, recalling the events of 910 in Constantinople, when the city was besieged by enemy troops. “Let us remember the event that took place in 910 in Constantinople, when the city was in peril and its people gathered in prayer for deliverance. Among them was St. Andrew the Fool, who, during the prayers, saw the Virgin Mary praying with the people.”

The bishop urged parishioners to pray sincerely, especially in these challenging times for Ukraine: “Every time we come to church, especially now, in this time of war, the Virgin Mary prays with us and for us. It is no coincidence that the Mother of God is called the Queen of Peace. This fundamental desire for peace should be on the lips of all Ukrainians today. Just as the Mother of God once sheltered this nation with her omophorion, she will assist us today if we will pray together with her.”

On Saturday, the eve of the holiday, five children participated in the Sacrament of Confession, followed by the solemn Holy Communion during the Hierarchical Liturgy on Sunday. The joint celebration served as a wonderful occasion to unite and strengthen the parish community.

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