By Goya Dmytryshchak
The biggest Greek Orthodox church in Melbourne’s west is holding a community festival as it continues fundraising efforts for people affected by the wildfires in their homeland.
The Dormition of Our Lady at Altona North will open its doors for all people to rejoice in Greek culture.
Parish priest Father George Frangos said there would be Greek food, music and dancing, with visits from the emergency services including the fire brigade and SES.
“During the day, we probably get about 2000-3000 people coming through,” he said.
People of all faiths can catch a glimpse inside the unique building, whose prototype was a church in Corinth, Greece.
“The building itself is of interest, and what we’re doing is opening it up to the wider community to see what we’re doing, together,” Father George said.
He said the church was continuing to accept donations for the people devastated by last month’s wildfires, which have claimed 93 lives.
“We’ve raised more than $8000 over the last couple of weeks in order to help feed people affected by the wildfires over in Athens,” Father George said.
“Some of the people that were involved in the design of certain elements – especially the chandeliers – of our church, some of their family members were killed as part of that.”
A liturgy will be held before the festival, which is on Sunday, August 19 from noon-5pm.
At 3pm, there will be a guided tour inside the church at 272 Millers Road.
