Greek diaspora honour Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at official dinner in Sydney

·

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.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Dr Christos Theologos: ‘Dance keeps us bound to our roots, from Chios to Sydney’

As part of the Zeibekiko Festival Australia, respected folklorist Dr Christos Theologos will lead a series of lectures and workshops.

South Melbourne turns to supporters ahead of Australian Championship kick-off

The opening clash of the Australian Championship will be an event shaped by the voices of the fans themselves.

Low birth rates and ageing: The silent enemy of the Greek nation

From the late 1990s it had become clear to Greek demographers and social scientists that the number of births in Greece was falling.

Peta Trimis: The new star of Australian football with a Hellenic soul

At just 19 years old, Peta Trimis is already being hailed as one of the brightest young stars of Australian football.

A second chance at life: Angelo Alateras’ journey from mechanical heart to transplant hope

After years on life support, 80kgs lost, and 615 days of physio, Angelo finally received the gift of a new heart.

You May Also Like

Darwin’s Cypriot community gathers to mark the anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus

Over 400 people from Darwin's Cypriot and Greek communities gathered to mark the 47th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.

Australian track and field athlete Mikeala Selaidinakos aims to qualify for Paris Olympics

On Thursday 25 April, Australian track and field athlete Mikeala Selaidinakos will depart for the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24.

Tahlia Kokkinis exits Australian Open Juniors campaign after impressive run

Tahlia Kokkinis' impressive Australian Open Juniors campaign came to an end after she was defeated by world No.7 Sonobe Wakana.