This previous Australia Day, a long-serving member of the Archdiocese, Mr. Naim Melhem, was honoured as recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM); for service to the community through a range of roles within the Archdiocese and in his general local, Victorian, and Australian communities.
In the Australian honours system, the Order of Australia (OAM) is conferred to its recipient as the highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service.
In his paternal love, Metropolitan Basilios recognised Mr. Melhem in the presence of his family, as well as members of clergy, and the Board. Gathering at his Melbourne residence, His Eminence shared insightful words on behalf of the Archdiocese and gifted Mr. Melhem an icon of Sts. Peter and Paul, adorned on a decorative plate, as a keepsake for the special occasion.
Mr. Melhem joins other members, past and present, of our Archdiocese who have laboured and been recognised.
His Eminence affirmed Mr. Melhem as ‘worthy’ of such recognition and shared his hope that such awards will inspire others to serve and labour in love, for the glory of God.
— Source: antiochian.org.au