The Ambassador of Greece to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, along with his wife, visited the Diocesan Offices of Brisbane this week on a diplomatic visit.
They were warmly welcomed by His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia. Also present were the Honorary Consul-General of Greece in Queensland, George Mastrocostas, and local clergy from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The visit began with a tour of the Church of Saint Paraskevi, where Ambassador Venizelos learned about the church’s history from Parish Priest Father Athanasios Athanasiadis. Following the tour, Bishop Bartholomew led a visit to the diocesan offices.
In his remarks, Bishop Bartholomew conveyed the blessings of Archbishop Makarios, who will be visiting Brisbane for the upcoming State Youth Conference. He also emphasised the importance of preserving Greek national identity, faith, language, culture and history.
The Bishop also praised Ambassador Venizelos for his humility, love and respect for the Church and the people of Queensland, wishing him continued success in his diplomatic role.
In response, Ambassador Venizelos thanked the Bishop for his warm hospitality and extended his best wishes for the Bishop’s continued service.
