3rd Annual Rejoice Resurrection Festival Attracts Thousands in Sydney
Assyrian Church of the East – May 2014
This year’s annual Rejoice Resurrection Festival of the Assyrian Church of the East Youth Association Sydney (ACEYAS) was held on Easter Monday, 21 April 2014, with the event attracting thousands of faithful and members of the local surrounding community.
In coming together to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, 2014’s festival found a new home, the grounds of Saint Hurmizd’s Cathedral and Saint Hurmizd Assyrian Primary School, with the new location proving a resounding success.
The day was filled with fun rides and amusements, appearances by movie characters such as Captain America, Superman and the festival’s famous friendly clown.
Later in the evening, well known Assyrian singers and entertainers, including Helen Isaac, Flora Simon and Ben Barkho, took to the stage and performed for hours, leaving everyone to dance the night away.
A rendition of Disney’s ‘Up’ house was built with a large number of balloons hung to it as a centrepiece; this was used as a donation box with all proceeds going to the Assyrian Church of the East Relief Organisation (ACERO). ACERO also provided attendees with a chance to make a difference to the lives of children and families in the Middle East by paying for needs, such as blankets and schooling.
The Assyrian Church of the East Children’s Association ensured there was plenty for children to do with numerous activities, including ceramic and face painting and a colouring-in competition.
Parishioners loved the entertainment, while the cultural food left the attendees with a fulfilled appetite; thanks to the collective efforts of the Assyrian Church of the East Ladies Committees.
Three lucky people walked away as winners of raffle prizes, which included a 50 inch LCD television, iPad Mini and a coffee machine.
The night concluded with a beautiful display of fireworks with spectators all gathered around St Hurmizd’s Cathedral grounds. What better way to celebrate the Great Feast of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ then to Rejoice just as it is written; “Where, O death is your victory? Where, O death is your sting? Christ is risen and the angels REJOICE! To him be glory and dominion unto ages of ages”.
The Youth Association of Sydney hopes to see everyone next year for their 4th Annual Rejoice Resurrection Festival.
