About 1,500 members of Australia’s Greek diaspora came together on Tuesday, October 8 to honour His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at an official dinner in Sydney.
The event took place at the International Convention Centre (ICC) and was held to mark the centenary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA). It featured a vibrant musical program that enhanced the festive atmosphere.
During the dinner, a special video message from Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was played, in which he emphatically declared “the unbreakable bonds of our Greek people with Orthodoxy.”
The Greek PM also highlighted the significant contributions of the GOAA to Hellenism and its positive impact on Australian society, declaring its “national significance.”
The gathering then exhibited a presentation, led by Andrew Liveris, on the newly established Order of the Saviour Christ, comprised of Archons from the GOAA.
During the evening, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia extended a heartfelt greeting to the Ecumenical Patriarch, expressing the deep love and respect of both the clergy and the faithful of the GOAA.
He emphasised that “it was impossible to celebrate the centenary without the presence of our Father and Patriarch,” while noting the historic invitation from the Australian Government, recognising the Patriarch’s esteemed position as a global religious leader.
His All-Holiness, visibly touched by the warm reception, expressed gratitude to the Greek diaspora for their generous hospitality and acknowledged their significant role in shaping modern Australian society.
In attendance, Leader of the Federal Opposition Peter Dutton MP spoke on His All-Holiness’ presence in Australia and expressed it “offers us an opportunity to reflect on the enormous contributions of the Greek community to our nation.”
“Known as the ‘Patriarch for Peace’, His All-Holiness has been a tireless advocate for global peace, environmental protection, and the spiritual wellbeing of all communities. His message is one of compassion and stewardship, transcending religious and cultural boundaries, and resonating with the timeless values that Australians hold,” he added.
Source: Orthodox Times.
