Archbishop Makarios of Australia recently travelled to Havana, Cuba, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the consecration of the Church of Saint Nicholas, a significant event for the Orthodox community. Representing the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Archbishop marked this important milestone for a church gifted by the late Cuban leader Fidel Castro to the Ecumenical Patriarchate two decades ago.
Upon his arrival at José Martí International Airport, Archbishop Makarios was warmly welcomed by Metropolitan Iakovos of Mexico, Bishop Athenagoras of Myrina, Cuban government representative Leira Sánchez Valdivia, and Greek Ambassador to Cuba, Theodoros Tsakiris, alongside other dignitaries.
In his address, Archbishop Makarios reflected on the historic visit of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Cuba in 2004, during which the Patriarch consecrated the Church of Saint Nicholas. He also expressed his gratitude to the Cuban government for its ongoing support of the Orthodox faithful in the country, underscoring the significance of this landmark church in fostering faith and community.
The Church of Saint Nicholas has come to symbolise the strong ties between the Orthodox Church and Cuba, serving as a spiritual home for Orthodox Christians in the region. Over the years, it has stood as a beacon of faith, unity, and cultural exchange, bridging the Orthodox community with Cuban society.
This 20th anniversary celebration highlights the enduring legacy of the Orthodox Church in Cuba and its role in promoting faith, hope, and unity among its followers. Archbishop Makarios’ presence at the event further underscored Australia’s connection to the broader Orthodox community and its commitment to fostering ties across the global Orthodox diaspora.
