On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Archbishop Makarios of Australia presided over the Doxology for the opening of the Judicial Year in New South Wales at the Cathedral of the Annunciation in Sydney.
Accompanying the Archbishop were Bishops Iakovos of Militoupolis and Christodoulos of Magnesia, while the event was attended by Chief Justice of New South Wales, Andrew Bell, members of the Judicial Body, lawyers, and students of Legal Science. Also present were students from the Greek Orthodox College of Saint Spyridon, accompanied by their parish clergy, Fathers Stylianos Skoutas, Stavros Ivanos, and Elias Oikonomou.
At the conclusion of the service, Archbishop Makarios extended his blessings and best wishes to the attendees for the new Judicial Year. He emphasized the importance of their mission in upholding justice, the rule of law, and the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms. He further encouraged them to draw inspiration and strength from Christ in the exercise of their demanding and responsible duties.
Following the Doxology, a modest reception was held in the Hall of the Theological School of Apostle Andrew. During his address, Chief Justice Andrew Bell congratulated the Holy Archdiocese of Australia for organizing the annual Doxology, recognizing its significance for the judicial community in New South Wales. He noted that many members of the legal profession in the state are of Greek heritage and remain devoted members of the Orthodox Church.
Chief Justice Bell also highlighted Australia’s multicultural and interfaith society, stressing the importance of mutual respect and equality, regardless of religion, language, or ancestry. Concluding his remarks, he personally thanked Archbishop Makarios for his unwavering support of this annual tradition and commended him on the remarkable renovation of the Sydney Cathedral, describing it as a beautiful and impressive transformation.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
