On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew visited Rookwood Cemetery in Sydney, where the late Metropolitan Theophylact of Australia and New Zealand and Archbishop Stylianos of Australia are laid to rest in the Greek Orthodox section.
Accompanied by Archbishop Makarios of Australia, Metropolitan Seraphim of Sebastia, Grand Ecclesiarch Aetios, Director of the Private Patriarchal Office, and Patriarchal Deacon Eulogios, the Patriarch led a Trisagion service at the gravesites of the esteemed Archbishops of the local Church in Australia. He spoke with deep respect and appreciation for their selfless service and the contributions they made to the Greek Orthodox faithful in Australia.
Patriarch Bartholomew, visibly moved, reflected on his personal connection to the late Archbishop Stylianos, with whom he shared a spiritual bond and friendship dating back to their youth at the Theological School of Halki. He described Archbishop Stylianos as “a remarkable, powerful personality, an outstanding theologian, a sensitive poet, a loyal friend, and a steadfast advocate.” He added, “All of his gifts were devoted to serving the Greek Orthodox community of Australia for nearly half a century. His legacy is indelibly etched in the history of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia.”
The Ecumenical Patriarch also offered prayers for the repose of the souls of deacons, hierarchs, clergy, and all Orthodox faithful resting in the soil of Australia. “For all, our prayer today rises as incense before the throne of God. Eternal is their memory,” he solemnly remarked.
Before his visit to the cemetery, Patriarch Bartholomew was warmly received at the Church of St. Athanasius by the Hierarchical Head, Fr. Ioannis Grillis, and a large gathering of faithful, including many children. Fr. Ioannis expressed his gratitude for the Patriarch’s blessed visit to Rookwood and provided a brief history of the Church of St. Athanasius, highlighting the significance of the occasion.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
