Darwin church closed for Sunday service amid anti-vax fight

Darwin’s Greek Orthodox church closed its doors for Sunday service amid an anti-vaccination clash involving its top priest.

THOSE seeking salvation at the Darwin’s St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church were faced with closed doors on Sunday.

The Cavenagh St church did not hold a morning Sunday Service on November 21.

Instead a collapsible table was set up outside and covered in candles, pictures of saints and bushels of basil.

“A sad day for Darwin’s Greek Orthodox community with our church being closed,” a hand written sign said.

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church was closed for its Sunday service on November 21. Picture: Zizi Averill

“May our holy saints intercede for us. Lord Jesus Christ have mercy on us and save us. Lord Jesus Christ have mercy on Father Joel.”

Father Joel Xanthos has been criticised by leading Greek figures and health authorities for describing vaccines as “experimental biological agents”.

On Thursday Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker warned the Church to comply with the Territory’s vaccination mandate, after a rule-breaking service was allegedly held by the unvaccinated Father Xanthos.

The Greek Orthodox Community of North Australia was contacted for comment, but did not wish to respond.