Australian Government to “show understanding” towards Greek Easter services, Scott Morrison says

·

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has responded to the growing concerns of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios, affirming to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia that private easter ceremonies conducted in the church will not be interrupted by members of authority.

Scott Morrison stressed that Easter Holy Week services for the Orthodox churches are “a special ritual that requires the presence of more than two or three people” and concluded by noting that “The Australian Government will show understanding during this period for the Churches of the Orthodox Archdiocese.”

His Eminence thanked the Prime Minister on his consideration and understanding that the Holy Week for the Orthodox Church is a special event for all Orthodox Christians.

Mr. Makarios has remained in constant communication with the Federal and State Authorities of the country from the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic, a statement released by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia reveals.

The announcement by the Prime Minister followed the Archbishop’s concerns regarding the broadcasts of the ceremonies via the internet. “I do not want them to see from the broadcasts that there are more people in the Temple (priest, deacon, right-wing chanter, left-wing chanter, young priest, ministers) and to consider us illegal. I don’t want police officers to come and knock on our doors during the procession”, said His Eminence.

The Minister of Multiculturalism, Mr. Geoff Lee, also sent congratulatory letters to religious leaders in Australia. The minister particularly thanked the Archbishop for his strong leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Orthodox Church being the first Australian church to take steps to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Summer soundtrack: The ultimate guide to Greek concerts and festivals in 2025

Wherever you are in the country, The Greek Herald has the inside scoop on must-see performances to catch during your summer escape.

Michael Zannis: The Greek Aussie cricket star redefining blindness

Michael Zannis has turned his ‘disability’ into his superpower. He lives as everyone else does and is thriving.

Greek olive oil today: Production, use and export data

Greek olive oil is consumed in large quantities in Greece today. Still, the small population leaves plenty of oil for export.

Greece ranks fifth highest in Europe for short-term rental prices

Greece has become the fifth most expensive destination in Europe for short-term rentals, with the average nightly rate reaching 250 euros.

Greece cracks down on beach violations amid thousands of complaints

Greek authorities are intensifying efforts to combat illegal beach occupation and protect public access to the coastline.

You May Also Like

Greece to shut down state agency amid EU fraud probe

The Greek government has announced it will shut down the state agency OPEKEPE, which is at the centre of a major EU fraud investigation.

‘A lifeline’: Irene Pnevmatikos MP calls for more dialysis services in SA after kidney cancer battle

Irene Pnevmatikos MLC called for more accessible dialysis services in South Australia during a speech to Parliament on Wednesday.

How St.Gerry’s became the catalyst of the Greek donut craze in Australia

At the time, there were not many dessert food trucks in the capital city of Victoria. There were many Greeks though.