Associate Professor Philip Kariatlis, Sub-Dean presented a lecture, as part of the Catechism Course organised by the Sydney District of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, titled “Discovering the Faith of the Orthodox Church: Meaning for Life, Ultimate Purpose” to a group of more than 50 people who gathered at the hall of St Andrew’s Theological College on 20 October 2026.

The lecture explored the Orthodox faith as an invitation to know God personally and to discover, through communion with Him, the meaning and ultimate purpose of human life. Central to the presentation was the distinction between knowing about God and truly knowing Him. The Church’s teachings guide the faithful towards a living relationship with Christ, transforming the heart and shaping how people love, relate to others and live each day.

Drawing on Holy Scripture, the Church Fathers and the prayers and hymns of the Divine Liturgy, the presentation considered the mystery of the Holy Trinity and God’s boundless love for His creation. The Divine Liturgy provided a central point of reference, revealing how the Church’s theology finds expression in worship and opens the faithful to participation in the life of God.

Particular attention was given to the Incarnation, Cross and Resurrection of Christ. His voluntary sacrifice revealed the depth of divine love and offered a renewed understanding of human greatness, expressed through forgiveness, faithfulness and generous service to others. The call to take up one’s cross was presented in the light of Christ’s victory over death and the promise of new life in Him.

The lecture also explored Pentecost and the work of the Holy Spirit, who brings the faithful into communion with Christ and makes possible their renewal. Through the Church’s worship, the saving events of Christ’s life become realities in which believers are invited to participate today.

The presentation invited participants to make a beginning in the life of faith with joy and earnestness, expressing their response to God through prayer, thanksgiving, hospitality and care for those in need. Its closing message recalled the exhortation of St Paul: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18).