The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia has concluded its regular session in Sydney, held from April 14 to 16 under the presidency of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
During the three-day gathering, convened as part of the Pentecostarion period, the Synod examined a range of ecclesiastical matters and adopted relevant canonical decisions.
Among the key issues discussed was what the Synod described as a growing trend among some clergy to promote themselves on social media in a manner more aligned with modern “influencers” than with their pastoral role.
In response, the Synod stressed that preaching and teaching within the Church remain the primary responsibility of the Bishop, and announced plans to issue a formal Synodal Encyclical to clergy and monastics across Australia.
The directive will outline specific guidelines aimed at addressing what was described as a broader trend of secularisation, which the Synod warned risks exposing rather than supporting the Church’s pastoral mission.
The session concluded with prayers for global peace and spiritual well-being, echoing the liturgical call “for the peace from above and for the salvation of our souls.”
