Archbishop Makarios of Australia, is currently undertaking a pastoral visit to the city of Brisbane, and is joined, among others, by Bishop Silouan of Adelaide.
Arriving in the capital city of Queensland on 6 December 2024, His Eminence was warmly welcomed by Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane, who was joined by the Clergy, Presidents and representatives of the organisations of the Holy Archdiocese, and representatives of Greek Associations and devout believers.
On the first day of his visit, the Archbishop performed the Blessing of the Offices of the newly established Holy Diocese of Brisbane, officially inaugurating a new chapter in the presence and activity of the local Church in the State of Queensland.
“With our Constitution recently approved by the Ecumenical Patriarchate,” he emphasised after the end of the Blessing Service, “we begin our journey with a clear framework that strengthens our mission and ensures the preservation of our sacred traditions in a manner that responds to the times and the needs of our faithful.”
“This new beginning,” he added, “is also marked by the dynamic presence of Bishop Bartholomew as the first Bishop of this Diocese, under the new constitutional order.”
Then, after speaking highly of Bishop Bartholomew for his diligent and dedicated ministry thus far, he appropriately wished him well for the sacred mission he has undertaken in Queensland, and expressed his confidence that he would fulfill it successfully.
“We entrust you,” he pointed out, “with the spiritual care of the clergy and laity of the Holy Diocese of Brisbane. Your duty is lofty: to lead and serve with wisdom and love, to cultivate the spiritual progress of our faithful, to work for the unity of our Archdiocese, and to be a beacon of the light of Christ in a world often overshadowed by spiritual confusion and despair. May God grant you many years of fruitful ministry in His vineyard.”
Addressing the clergy and faithful present, His Eminence urged them to maintain the spirit of unity and love within the Church, putting aside selfish personal interests and avoiding divisions.
He further urged them to embrace and support their Bishop, and together to make every effort to ensure that “these offices will not be mere places of administration, but a centre of spiritual ministry, education and pastoral care.”
“Participate actively, care for the spiritual cultivation of the youth, support our elderly and reach out to those in need,” he further urged them, before concluding his speech with the wish: “May the Holy Diocese of Brisbane march from success to success in all areas, to the glory of God.”
