Greek Orthodox parishioners in Melbourne angered over council candidate’s campaign tactics

·

Churchgoers at Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church in Templestowe have raised concerns about the campaign tactics of Isabella Eltaha, a candidate for the Manningham council, after she distributed flyers despite being explicitly asked not to campaign during a Sunday service.

Eltaha attended the church as part of her election efforts, but the church president informed her that while she was welcome to participate, she “could not campaign during the liturgy or service.” This decision was made as the church sought to remain neutral, not aligning with any election candidates or political policies.

Despite these guidelines, a long-time church member, who requested anonymity, told The Herald Sun that Eltaha proceeded to hand out flyers.

“I recognised her face from the posters across the street and spoke to her,” he recalled. “She came across as very polite and charming and told me she was an Armenian Christian.”

However, many congregants felt taken aback by her actions, deeming them “inappropriate.”

One parishioner commented, “There are better ways to campaign than going to a church you have been asked not to campaign at. It’s not a good look campaigning at a church.”

Additionally, some members expressed doubts about Eltaha’s authenticity in her campaign, especially after learning of her affiliation with the Alliance of Australian Muslims (AAM).

According to Herald Sun, a senior parishioner said, “Our church is full of people of different ethnicities, and not everyone is Greek… I would not have a problem if she came to our church and was honest, but members are confused about whether she was being authentic.”

Source: Herald Sun.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

John Stamos explores his Greek heritage in emotional documentary

In a new documentary, Hollywood actor John Stamos embarks on a personal journey to uncover his Greek ancestry.

Actor Adam Demos opens up on his exciting new role

Australian actor Adam Demos, takes on a new challenge in Rescue: HI-Surf, where he plays lifeguard Will Ready on O‘ahu’s North Shore.

Bauhaus-inspired revival for Athens’ Faliro Bay waterfront

The European Commission has approved €370 million in funding for the Faliro Bay Metropolitan Park in Athens.

Expansion work set to begin at Athens International Airport

Preliminary construction for the expansion of Athens International Airport is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2025.

Study ranks Greece among world’s scariest places to drive

According to a recent survey by Scrap Car Comparison, Greece ranks among the most nerve-wracking places to drive in the world.

You May Also Like

Karavaki: The Greek tradition of decorating boats for Christmas

In Greece, it is an old tradition to decorate a sailboat with Christmas lights instead of a Christmas tree.

Restored ‘Apollo Belvedere’ statue back on display at the Vatican

The Vatican Museums have unveiled the restored second-century "Apollo Belvedere" sculpture, following a five-year restoration effort.

Thousands ordered to evacuate as more flooding expected for Victoria, NSW and Tasmania

Towns across Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania are being urged to evacuate as the states brace for more wild weather.