With reverence and a strong sense of community, parishioners of the Transfiguration of the Saviour Greek Orthodox Parish in Thomastown gathered to prepare for the Sunday of the Veneration of the Holy Cross, an important spiritual milestone in the Orthodox liturgical calendar.

As Lent enters its fourth week, the Feast of the Holy Cross serves as a reminder of the spiritual struggle of the faithful and the importance of faith, patience and perseverance.

In a heartfelt act of community service and solidarity, more than 700 small flower posies were carefully prepared by parish volunteers to accompany the veneration of the Holy Cross during the church services.

A particularly encouraging presence at the gathering was that of the young people of the parish, who participated enthusiastically in preparing and organising the flowers. Their active involvement sent a powerful message about the continued connection between the younger generation and the life of the Church.

In the spirit of Orthodox solidarity and generosity, the parish also prepared 50 additional bouquets to be sent to the Greek Orthodox Parish in Bendigo, allowing faithful in the regional Victorian community to take part in the cherished tradition.