His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia made a historical visit to Brisbane this past week, where he blessed the new Greek Orthodox Diocese offices, spoke at a youth conference, and presided over a Divine Liturgy.
Blessing of the new Diocese of Brisbane
On Friday, December 6, Archbishop Makarios, accompanied by His Grace Bishop Silouan of Adelaide, arrived in Brisbane, Queensland for a pastoral visit.
The Archbishop was warmly received by His Grace Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane, local clergy, and community representatives. The visit began with the Blessing of the Offices of the newly established Holy Diocese of Brisbane, marking a significant milestone in the local Church’s development.
In his address, Archbishop Makarios spoke of the importance of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia’s (GOAA) new constitutional framework, stating, “We begin our journey with a clear framework that strengthens our mission and ensures the preservation of our sacred traditions.”
He expressed confidence in the leadership of Bishop Bartholomew, urging the faithful to support their new bishop in cultivating spiritual progress and unity within the Church.
“These offices will not be mere places of administration, but a centre of spiritual ministry, education and pastoral care,” he said.
Youth Conference: ‘We Are Ready for the Future‘
The following day, on December 7, more than 250 young people gathered at the Youth Conference of the Holy Diocese of Brisbane, held at the Parish of the Dormition of Our Lady in Mt Gravatt.
The conference opened with Archbishop Makarios delivering a powerful keynote address, encouraging the youth to make their lives “Christ-centred” and to share the light of Christ with the world.
“We cannot be invisible disciples,” he told the audience. “Being a Christian is much more than going to church on Sunday. Christians are to be torchbearers in a dark world.”
The Archbishop also reflected on the pioneering efforts of Greek Orthodox immigrants in Australia, who preserved the faith and traditions. He concluded by urging the youth to share their Christian hope with others and draw people to the source of life: Jesus Christ.
The opening ceremony was attended by key figures, including Bishop Bartholomew, Bishop Silouan, and the Honorary Consul-General of Greece in Brisbane, George Mastrocostas, who announced the creation of an annual scholarship for Queensland youth wishing to study at Saint Andrew’s Theological College in Sydney.
Cultural evening at the Youth Conference dinner
On the evening of December 7, Archbishop Makarios attended the official dinner of the Youth Conference, hosted by the Parish-Community of Saint George, Brisbane.
The evening was graced by traditional performances from the St. George Hellenic Dancers and the Cretan Association of Queensland, who showcased the dances of Macedonia and Crete. The cultural program received warm applause from Archbishop Makarios and other guests.
During his address, the Archbishop reiterated his message for the youth to stay close to the Church and live Christ-centred lives. He also called on the clergy and laity to work together for the unity and progress of the GOAA. As a token of appreciation for his ministry, Archbishop Makarios presented Bishop Bartholomew with an Hierarchical Engolpion depicting the Holy Apostle Andrew.
The evening concluded with the cutting of a celebratory cake, marking the success of the Youth Conference and the strong bonds formed within the community.
Tri-Hierarchical Divine Liturgy
On Sunday, December 8, a Tri-Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Church of Saint Paraskevi in Taigum, Brisbane. The service was presided over by Archbishop Makarios, with the concelebration of Bishop Bartholomew and Bishop Silouan.
The Liturgy was attended by many devout believers, including the Honorary Consul-General Mr Mastrocostas, and the President of the Parish, Costa Stratikopoulos.
During his sermon, Archbishop Makarios reflected on the healing of the crippled woman in the Gospel, drawing parallels between her physical condition and the spiritual struggles many face.
At the conclusion of the Liturgy, Archbishop Makarios elevated Father Evangelos Aspiotis to Spiritual Father – Confessor for the Parish of Saint John the Baptist in Cairns. In his address to Fr. Evangelos, the Archbishop encouraged him to relieve the burdens of his flock with compassion and humility.
The Archbishop also expressed gratitude to the local clergy, including Father Athanasios Athanasiadis of Saint Paraskevi, Mr Stratikopoulos and Mr Mastrocostas, for their dedicated service to the local Church and the Greek community.
