In an atmosphere of reverence and spiritual emotion, on the day of the commemoration of the Prophet Elijah the Tishbite, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the newly built Holy Church of Saint George Karslidis, in the city of Makambako in Central Tanzania.
This marks a new missionary beginning in a land that thirsts for the Word of God and the truth of the Orthodox Faith. The church was constructed through the generous offerings of devout Greek expatriates from Australia, who, wholeheartedly dedicated to the Mission, became co-workers in the work of the Church. The Greeks of Australia have been the ones who supported this missionary outreach from the very beginning and continue to actively care for the emerging needs—charitable, pastoral, and missionary—demonstrating their love for their fellow human beings and for Christ through concrete actions.
The first faithful and catechumens of this community are humble people who once lived in the nearby region of Iringa. They first heard about the Orthodox Church either through personal encounters or stories shared by friends and acquaintances. That first seed of faith is now sprouting and bearing fruit in Makambako.
Local Tanzanian government officials were also present at the Divine Liturgy, who, with good intentions, played a crucial role in securing the land for the construction of the Holy Church and in issuing the necessary building permits.
Before the dismissal, a memorial service was held for the repose of 25-year-old Ioannis Kyriakidis, as well as for his father Nikolaos and his aunt Aikaterini. After the service, a meal of love was offered in memory of our departed brothers and sisters.
We pray that the Lord may grant rest to their souls in the land of the living and bless this new missionary beginning, so that Makambako may become a place of spiritual fruitfulness where every soul may taste the peace and love of God.
