ST NIKOLA’S Church in North Perth was packed on Wednesday as the Macedonian community came out in force to celebrate Orthodox Christmas.

Candles and icons were in hot demand as a queue snaked out onto Angove Street, families greeting each other and snapping photos with the church’s distinctive cupolas behind, before lining up to give offerings, pray before religious icons and receive a blessing.

Community president Milko Stojanoski said the congregation took part in a liturgy around the church before heading to Malagato gather around a small fire and watch the children jump over as part of the Christmas celebrations.

“That’s a tradition for good health,” Mr Stojanoski said.

• Adrijan Manevski (centre) and his family came out to celebrate. Photos by Steve Grant

Ornate

The ornate church was completed in 1996 on the site of the old Anglican church’s hall, and in a neat bit of symmetry, Mr Stojanoski said they’re now in the process of restoring the old church itself to become the Orthodox community’s new hall.

Part of the upgrade, which will see it get a new kitchen, will also push a new entrance through from Albert Street near North Perth primary through to Angove Street, allowing for better traffic flow and drop-offs.

Mr Stojanoski said the design for the church was taken from 12th century designs.

“So we brought it to the 21st century.”

• Macedonian community president Milko Stojanoski and secretary Saso Petroski. Photos by Steve Grant

Adrijan Manevski attended the festivities with his family and said it made him feel “special” to kiss the cross and share the church bread with the whole community.

He says they were then looking forward to heading to his grandmother’s for lunch.

by STEVE GRANT