Yesterday marked a milestone for the Archdiocese of Australia, as it will soon operate under a new Constitution for the first time in 65 years. This significant development was approved by the Holy and Sacred Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, which convened at the Phanar. Archbishop Makarios of Australia, though not a synodical member, was invited to attend and received warm congratulations from the Hierarchs.
During the session, Archbishop Makarios provided clarifications and answered questions from the Metropolitans of the Holy and Sacred Synod, contributing to a positive and celebratory atmosphere regarding the future of the Archdiocese of Australia.
The leadership and faithful of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia were informed with great joy and satisfaction that the Holy Synod, under the presidency of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, had unanimously approved the new Constitution. This document, replacing the previous one from 1959, is designed to better address the modern needs and challenges faced by the local Church as it enters the second century of Orthodox Christian life in Australia.
Key provisions of the new Constitution include:
- Preservation of Institutions: The new Constitution maintains the vital institutions of the Clergy-Laity Congress and the Archdiocesan Council.
- Introduction of the Synodal System: A more effective administrative structure based on the Holy Canons of the Church (Holy Eparchial Synod) will be implemented, along with the establishment of six new Dioceses.
- Financial Management: Financial and management issues of the Parishes will continue to be overseen by the Consolidated Trust of the Holy Archdiocese, while Communities will remain under the direction of their respective Boards of Directors.
Archbishop Makarios, along with the Bishops, clergy, and faithful of the Orthodox Church in Australia, expressed their deep gratitude to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the members of the Holy and Sacred Synod for this historic decision. They particularly appreciated the reaffirmation of the Mother Church’s unwavering care and the Patriarch’s dedication to the spiritual growth and well-being of the Orthodox faithful in Australia.
The Archdiocese is also eagerly anticipating the visit of the Ecumenical Patriarch this coming October, when they will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
