Ohi Day celebrated at Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Melbourne

The anniversary of Greece’s historic “Ohi” (No) of October 28, 1940, and the Feast of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos were celebrated on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Panagia “Axion Estin” in Northcote, Victoria, Australia.

Bishop Evmenios of Chora presided over the Matins and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, conveying the paternal wishes and blessings of Archbishop Makarios of Australia.

Following the Divine Liturgy, the traditional Doxology was celebrated to commemorate Greece’s national holiday, in the presence of the Mayor of Darebin, Amalia Dimitriadis.

In his address, Bishop Evmenios reflected on the historic “Ohi” of 1940, emphasizing that it represented far more than the rejection of an ultimatum. Rather, it was a declaration of freedom, dignity, and faith.

“The greatness of 1940 was not that the Greek people were unafraid, but that they refused to allow fear to determine their future,” he stressed.

The Bishop also highlighted the importance of preserving the Orthodox faith and Greek cultural heritage among younger generations of Greek Australians.

He emphasized that the greatest tribute to the heroes of 1940 is to remain…