The Beheading of our Glorious and Holy Prophet and Forerunner Saint John the Baptist was commemorated on Sunday the 29th of August at the Holy Monastery of St John in Perth.
First, the Hierarchical Vespers Service was presided by His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea on Saturday the 28th of August in the presence of faithful and clergy from all the parishes, who gathered at the Monastery to attend.
On the following day, which is the actual day of the beheading of Saint John, His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea officiated in the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Monastery, with many faithful participating in the commemoration.
His Grace spoke about the life of Saint John the Baptist and the story behind his Beheading, pointing out that this was the second biggest crime in history, after the Crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ.
At the conclusion of the service, His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Kyanea conveyed the blessings and love of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia. This was then followed by a fasting morning tea in the Monastery Hall.