His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has held a number of high-level meetings with political and faith leaders during his historic visit to Sydney, Australia this week.
His All-Holiness arrived in Sydney on Friday, October 4 for a 15-day tour to mark the centenary of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia (GOAA). There was a Welcome Doxology held for him on Saturday, October 5, and a Patriarchal Divine Liturgy on Sunday, October 6.
Meeting with Australia’s Prime Minister
During his packed schedule, and before he leaves for Melbourne on Saturday, October 12, His All-Holiness met with Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Kirribilli House in Sydney. He was accompanied by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia and His Eminence Metropolitan Kyrillos of Imbros and Tenedos.
The Ecumenical Patriarch had an extensive and fruitful discussion with Albanese, thanking him for his honorary presence at the official Doxology service held on Saturday, October 5 at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady in Redfern.
Meeting with Australia’s Leader of the Opposition
On Monday, October 7, the Ecumenical Patriarch welcomed the leader of Australia’s Liberal Party, Peter Dutton, to his residence in Sydney. The meeting, held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, was also attended by Archbishop Makarios.
During the discussion, matters of mutual interest were addressed, with a focus on the Greek Orthodox presence in the country, its needs, and its contributions.
The Ecumenical Patriarch warmly thanked Dutton for his visit and interest and offered him well wishes for the fulfillment of his duties for the benefit of Australian society.
Meeting with the NSW Governor
His All-Holiness was warmly received by the Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, at Government House in Sydney on Saturday, October 5.
His All-Holiness was accompanied by His Eminence Metropolitan Kyrillos of Imbros and Tenedos, and His Eminence Archbishop Makarios.
The meeting focused on matters concerning the Greek Orthodox presence in Australia, as well as current issues of broader interest.
The Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his gratitude to the Governor for her supportive attitude and the spirit of cooperation she has shown towards the Orthodox Church and the Greek community of NSW.
