On the eve of the feast of Saint Alypius the Stylite, His Eminence Metropolitan Siluan visited the Monastery of Saint Sava in Elaine.
After the vespers service, His Eminence tonsured novice Jovan Blagojević a rasophore monk, giving him the monastic name Milutin. After the tonsure, Metropolitan Siluan congratulated the brotherhood on their new brother and instructed the newly tonsured monk Milutin about the monastic path and life. The present monks then accompanied Brother Milutin to his cell, singing the Troparion of the Most Holy Theotokos.
On the day of the feast, His Eminence the Metropolitan Siluan served Divine Hierachical Liturgy, with the concelebration of clergy, monastics, and assisting readers from the Deanery of Melbourne and Adelaide and New Zealand. The liturgy was traditionally attended by a large number of faithful, many of whom received Holy Communion.
His Eminence delivered a festive sermon about the life of Saint Alypius, his ascetic feats, and his significance for Christianity.
After the thanksgiving prayer, the Slava cake was blessed, offered by this year’s host Nikola Stambolija with his family. For the following year, Reader Jovan Bogićević was chosen to be the host.
After the Divine Liturgy, a festive luncheon was served, where the Very Reverend Protopresbyter-Stavrophor Milorad Lončar addressed those present.
During his archpastoral visit to St. Sava Monastery in Elaine, Metropolitan Siluan took the opportunity to familiarise himself with the completed works on the renovation of the Bishop’s residence, as well as ongoing projects, such as the renovation of the guest residential units. Special attention was given to the fresco painting project of the Church of Saint Alypius the Stylite which will commence early next year.
During his stay at the monastery, Metropolitan Siluan also held several important meetings with clergy and faithful from Victoria.
Glory to God for everything.
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