Bishop Bartholomew of Brisbane recently welcomed the President of the Cretan Brotherhood of Queensland, Antonios Katsanevas, together with members of the Brotherhood’s Board of Directors, at the offices of the Holy Diocese of Brisbane.
During the cordial meeting, Bishop Bartholomew emphasized the enduring value of unity, as well as the vital importance of preserving Greek customs, traditions, faith, culture, and the Greek language within the diaspora.
His Grace also spoke of the longstanding and meaningful bonds between Crete and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, recalling with gratitude the profound love that the late Archbishop of Australia, Stylianos, held for the great island of Crete.
He further highlighted the strong personal connection of the current Archbishop of Australia, Makarios, to Crete, noting that he himself is a proud Cretan from Heraklion.
Expressing his appreciation for the Bishop’s warmth and hospitality, Katsanevas, on behalf of the Cretan Brotherhood of Queensland, conferred upon the Bishop the distinction of Honorary Life Member, in recognition of his support and spiritual leadership.
Bishop Bartholomew accepted the honour with humility and gratitude, remarking that although he was not born in Crete, he has always felt a deep affection for the island. He attributed this love in part to stories shared by his late father, who served at the naval base in Souda Bay, through which he came to admire the courage, faith, hospitality, and proud spirit of the Cretan people.
In closing, the Bishop conveyed the love and blessings of Archbishop Makarios of Australia, wishing the Cretan Brotherhood every success in its mission and a blessed Christmas. He once again underlined the importance of unity and affirmed that his office remains always open to the people of Queensland.
