His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia has issued a statement following the passing of Protopresbyter Father Elias Kentrotis on Saturday, 23 August 2025.
Father Elias, who was born in Brisbane in 1951, was a third-generation Greek Australian with family roots in Kythera, Aegina, Kastellorizo and Chios. After theological studies in Thessaloniki, where he lived at the Monastery of Vlatadon and embraced the liturgical and spiritual life of the Church, he was ordained in 1976.
Following his return to Australia, Father Elias established the Parish of the Presentation of Christ in Coburg before founding St Haralambos Parish in Templestowe in 1988. He went on to serve there for 37 years until his passing, becoming a spiritual father to generations of faithful.
Father Elias is remembered as one of the first Australian-born clergy of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, distinguished for his pastoral care of young people and his tireless service to the wider community.
In his message, Archbishop Makarios expressed both sorrow and deep admiration for the late clergyman.
“His departure from this world leaves an irreplaceable void in our local Church, which he served with a spirit of sacrifice and genuine ecclesiastical ethos for almost half a century,” the Archbishop said.
“At the same time, it shakes the hearts of countless people who found rest in his gentle words and were guided by his spiritual counsel.”
The Archbishop also personally conveyed his condolences to Presvytera Stavroula Kentrotis and the family of the late priest.
Father Elias leaves behind his Presvytera, five children, and nine grandchildren. His Funeral Service will be held at St Haralambos Church, Templestowe, with His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne presiding on behalf of the Archbishop.
