Archbishop Makarios of Australia began his pastoral tour on January 4 by blessing the Vasilopita of the Archdiocesan District of Northcote.
This marked the beginning of his visit in Victoria on the occasion of the Epiphany feast, held at the Holy Monastery of “Axion Esti.” Esteemed personalities attended the events, including Bishops Kyriakos of Sozopolis and Evmenios of Kerasounta, Archdiocesan Commissioners of Melbourne and Northcote respectively, Consul General of Greece in Melbourne Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Federal MP Maria Vamvakinos, Greek Community President Vasileios Papastergiadis, Nikolaos Archonis (the brother of the Ecumenical Patriarch), along with clergy and believers from the region.
Bishop Evmenios extended a warm welcome to the Archbishop, echoed by Consul General Kakavelakis at the event’s outset. Both emphasized the significant challenges and milestones of 2024, including the centenary celebrations of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia, the upcoming visit of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in October, and the imperative task of charting a prosperous future.
Archbishop Makarios, in his address, focused on the significance of the Archdiocese’s 100th anniversary, specifically highlighting the important role played by late Metropolitan Christoforos of Australia and New Zealand as its first Shepherd. He stressed the Metropolitan’s erudition—he was fluent in English, held postgraduate and doctoral degrees from the University of Oxford, and was the pioneer in translating the Inauguration Service from Greek to English.
Highlighting the collective effort needed, the Archbishop emphasized, “Together, we will write the history of our Archdiocese’s new centenary.” He urged active participation in the forthcoming anniversary events, culminating in the visit of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew from October 4 to October 19, 2024, an occasion set to bless and honor the Orthodox community of Australia.
Concluding his address, Archbishop Makarios encouraged everyone to prioritize deepening their connection with Christ in the new year. He also expressed gratitude and congratulations to Bishops Kyriakos of Sozopolis and Evmenios of Kerasounta for their exemplary ministry in Victoria.
Article translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas