The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA) will host the 2nd Pan-Australian Clergy Synaxis in Sydney from 29 September to 1 October 2025, bringing together clergy from across the nation and distinguished Orthodox leaders from overseas to discuss one of the most pressing topics of our time – the Church’s role in the digital age.
A timely theme: Social media, AI and the Church
This year’s Synaxis will focus on “Social Media and Priesthood: The use of digital platforms by clergy.”
The three-day program will explore how priests can responsibly and effectively engage with online platforms to connect with the faithful, spread the message of the Gospel, and address pastoral challenges in an increasingly digital society.
Sessions will also address wider issues such as the ethical responsibilities of clergy online, the influence of social media on community life, the impact of the climate crisis, and even the role of artificial intelligence in Church communication.
Opening the Synaxis, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia will deliver a keynote address on “Artificial Intelligence and the Church”, setting the tone for discussions on the opportunities and challenges new technologies present to the Orthodox faith.
Global Orthodox presence in Sydney
Highlighting Australia’s growing importance in the global Orthodox world, the Synaxis will welcome a delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate led by Metropolitan Apostolos of Miletus, representing Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. Patriarchal Deacon Photios Poulopoulos will also attend.
They will be joined by hierarchs from Greece and abroad, including:
- Metropolitan Ignatios of Demetrias and Almyros (Greece)
- Metropolitan Gregorios of Cameroon (Patriarchate of Alexandria)
- Metropolitan Ioustinos of Nea Krini and Kalamaria (Greece)
- Metropolitan Damaskinos of Aetolia and Akarnania (Greece)
Representatives from Mount Athos and distinguished Archimandrites and theologians will also participate, alongside bishops from all Australian states and territories.
Program highlights
The Synaxis will open on Monday, September 29 at the Resurrection of Christ Parish–Community in Kogarah, with a blessing service and video message from Patriarch Bartholomew. Throughout the first two days, participants will hear keynote addresses and presentations on topics ranging from:
- “The priest as an influencer of souls”
- “Missionary work in the digital era”
- “Pastoral responsibilities in online engagement”
- “Social media fears and end-time anxieties”
- “The priest as an authentic witness of Christ in the digital age”
On Wednesday, October 1, the Synaxis will conclude with a Synodal and Multi-Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Resurrection of Christ Church in Kogarah, led by Archbishop Makarios and concelebrated by bishops and priests from across Australia.
A formal dinner will also mark the 40th anniversary of St Andrew’s Theological College, celebrating four decades of theological education and clergy formation in Australia.
